Steve Kerr Credits Mark Jackson for Making Warriors a 'Great Defensive Team'

The Golden State Warriors have become one of the NBA's best teams since Steve Kerr took over as head coach three years ago, but Kerr believes former head coach Mark Jackson deserves credit for at least one area in which the current group excels.

Per ESPN's Marc J. Spears, Kerr said Jackson made the Warriors a "great defensive team" prior to his arrival. 

Jackson coached the Warriors for three seasons from 2011-14 and led the team into the postseason in each of his last two seasons. 

During Jackson's tenure in Golden State, the franchise went from 27th in defensive efficiency during his first season to fourth in his final season. 

While the Warriors have been an offensive juggernaut with stars like Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, Draymond Green and Kevin Durant joining that group this year, they remain an excellent defensive unit. They finished this season ranked second in defensive efficiency, allowing 102.6 points per 100 possessions. 

With two more wins over the Cleveland Cavaliers in the NBA Finals, the Warriors will capture their second title in three years. 

Statistics courtesy Basketball-Reference.com.