After missing out on the postseason two years in a row, the Charlotte Hornets fired coach Steve Clifford after five modest seasons. The team then hired San Antonio Spurs assistant coach James Borrego, in a bid to make a good impression for superstar Kemba Walker to stay.
It will also usher in a new era of a faster style of play for the team. In the recent NBPA camp, Kristian Winfield had a chance to sit down with Walker, who emphasized that the Hornets will be embracing the offensive system that has been taking the league by storm.
Kemba Walker on changes under new head coach James Borrego: “We’ll be a lot faster this year. We’ll play more up tempo.”
— Kristian Winfield (@Krisplashed) August 16, 2018
Walker couldn't be more excited as his quick first step and ability to do all things in open court will bode well for a faster offensive tempo. Borrego also chimed in on this in his first press conference after the hiring.
“You should see an exciting brand of basketball,” said Borrego. “One that fits today’s NBA style and gives us the best chance to win moving forward.”
The Hornets let go of center Dwight Howard in free agency, then surprised the league when they successfully lured Spurs veteran Tony Parker to join his longtime assistant coach.
A possible pace-and-space type of offense is in the making for a Hornets team that is arguably without the services of a traditional big man. Cody Zeller and Willy Hernangomez would be their best options at the 5 spot, both of which are outside-shooting big men.
Borrego will try to further include Nicolas Batum in the offense but ultimately, the team will rely on all-star point guard Kemba Walker to lead them to playoff contention.
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