Brad Stevens Opens Up About His Biggest Challenge in Transitioning from Coach to Executive

Brad Stevens, known for his tenure as the head coach of the Boston Celtics, has significantly shifted his role in the organization. After leading the Celtics for eight seasons, from the 2013-14 season through the 2020-21 campaign, Stevens made a notable transition in the 2021-22 season. During his coaching stint, he guided the Celtics to the playoffs seven times and secured three Eastern Conference Finals appearances. Despite these achievements, the elusive championship title remained out of reach.

The 2021-22 season marked a major change as Stevens stepped into the role of President of Basketball Operations, succeeding Danny Ainge. This change in position came with its own set of challenges and opportunities. Under Stevens’ leadership as an executive, the Celtics enjoyed considerable success, including winning one championship and making two NBA Finals appearances within his first three seasons.

Stevens recently discussed the hurdles he faced when transitioning from coaching to an executive role. According to Stevens, the adjustment from the high-paced, eight-month coaching sprint to a more comprehensive 12-month executive role was significant. He emphasized that while coaching required intense focus on leading the team and managing staff, his new role involves overseeing a broader range of basketball operations. Stevens acknowledged that roster management, though crucial, represents just a small fraction of the job, which involves numerous other responsibilities.

Despite the steep learning curve, Stevens has found the role both rewarding and fulfilling. He praised the stability and expertise of the Celtics’ front office team, noting that their skills complement his own and have made the transition smoother. The collaborative environment has been instrumental in navigating the complexities of the job and achieving the team’s goals. Stevens expressed his excitement about witnessing the growth and success of his coaches and staff, contributing to the team’s recent championship run.

Stevens’ accomplishments in his new role were further recognized when he was named the 2023-24 Executive of the Year. His strategic moves, including pivotal trades for players like Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday, played a crucial role in Boston’s exceptional 64-18 regular season record. This success highlights Stevens’ effective adaptation to his new position and his ongoing impact on the Celtics’ success.