BREAKING NEWS: Excitments Hit Great North Carolina Spectrum Center stadium as former Head coach Charlotte Hornets  legend Steve Clifford has Returned to former team as a senior coaching…see more

The city of Charlotte is buzzing with excitement and nostalgia today as the Charlotte Hornets have officially announced the return of former head coach and franchise legend Steve Clifford to the organization. Clifford will be rejoining the team in a new role as Senior Coaching Advisor, a move that has fans and analysts alike thrilled at the prospect of his steady presence and strategic expertise being back in the mix.

The announcement came during a surprise press conference at the Spectrum Center, where team executives, current players, and Clifford himself addressed an energized crowd of media and fans.

> “This organization has always felt like home,” Clifford said. “I’m excited to be back in the building, working with a group of talented young players and supporting the coaching staff in any way I can.”

Clifford, who previously coached the Hornets from 2013–2018 and again from 2022–2024, is widely respected for his defensive acumen, attention to detail, and no-nonsense leadership style. Under his guidance, the Hornets saw periods of defensive improvement and playoff competitiveness, earning him a special place in the franchise’s history.

A Strategic Move by the Front Office

Hornets General Manager Jeff Peterson called the decision to bring Clifford back a “strategic leadership move,” aimed at strengthening the basketball operations department and mentoring the current coaching staff, led by head coach Charles Lee.

> “Steve brings a level of experience and insight that’s hard to match,” Peterson said. “His ability to develop talent and guide a young roster is exactly what this team needs as we move into the next phase of our rebuild.”

Fans React with Enthusiasm

The return of Clifford has ignited a wave of enthusiasm among Hornets fans, many of whom still view him as the most stable and respected figure the franchise has seen in the past decade.

Social media lit up minutes after the announcement, with hashtags like #CliffordReturns and #BuzzCityLegend trending across the Carolinas.

What’s Next?

While Clifford won’t be returning to the sidelines full-time, his presence in the building is expected to play a key role in shaping team culture, player development strategies, and game preparation processes. The Hornets, currently focused on building around young talents such as Brandon Miller and recent lottery pick Trey Holloway, view Clifford’s experience as a “game-changer” in solidifying their long-term vision.

Stay tuned as more details emerge about Clifford’s specific responsibilities and how his role will influence the Hornets’ strategies heading

into the 2025–26 NBA season.