NBA-Warriors coach Kerr admits he still gets butterflies on opening night

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Oct 12, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Golden State Warriors Head Coach Steve Kerr during the first half against the Los Angeles Lakers at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

REUTERS

LOS ANGELES - Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr said he still feels pregame nerves as his team prepares to open the NBA season against the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday, calling opening night a moment that never loses its edge.

As a coach I get butterflies before every game, just like I did as a player, Kerr told reporters on Monday.

As soon as the butterflies leave, its probably time for me to leave.

Kerr won five championships as a player with the Chicago Bulls and San Antonio Spurs before adding four more titles as head coach of the Warriors dynasty.

Kerr said the stage in Los Angeles adds to the occasion.

Im excited, I cant wait. What a setting - opening night, Staples, itll be fun, he said, referring to the Lakers home arena.

He described the leagues curtain-raiser as a reset from the preseason and a jolt of competitive focus.

I love it. Its the first step. Theres something special about opening night. The exhibition season is behind us, the focus is suddenly there. The competitive juice is there. The lights are on, the popcorn is popping, Kerr said.

You just feel opening night. The first night of the playoffs is a similar one, and then you get into