NBA Breaking News: Warriors Name Mark Jackson Head Coach

After an extensive coaching search, the Golden State Warriors have named 17-year NBA veteran Mark Jackson head coach for the 2011-2012 season.

Jackson has most recently served as an NBA analyst for ESPN.

The 46-year-old Jackson spent his NBA career as a member of the New York Knicks, LA Clippers, Indiana Pacers, Denver Nuggets, Toronto Raptors, Utah Jazz and Houston Rockets.

When asked about this new opportunity, Jackson said:

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"I am really elated about this opportunity, and I’m looking forward to the challenge of building the Warriors into a perennial contender. I cannot tell you how impressed I was with the organization during our meetings, beginning at the top with Joe Lacob and, of course, with Larry Riley, Bob Myers and Jerry West.  I have sensed that Joe is committed to winning and building a team and a culture the right way.  I think we all witnessed that with some of the recent front office additions as well and some of the other positive things that have been done in recent months.  This is an incredible opportunity and I am honored and thank God that I have been chosen to be the next coach of the Warriors.  The Bay Area has always had some of the best fans in the NBA and I look forward to being a part of that incredible atmosphere at Oracle Arena, along with my wife, my kids and my church family, who are thrilled as well.”—NBA.com

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Jackson has no NBA head coaching experience. He will assume the duties of head coach at the conclusion of the NBA finals.