Teams coached by Jacque Vaughn

When it comes to basketball, the influence of players is far more than any other related fraternities. But other than players, it is coaches who, through their drawing charts dictate the team’s fortune in the game. Their mixed character as a leader, player and strategist helps their team to thrive on the court. So, when a player turns to coaching, it certainly helps a team to understand the game plan better. One such name currently active in the NBA is Jacque Vaughn.

Jacque Vaughn spent 12 seasons in the NBA as a player. He won the 2007 NBA championship with the San Antonio Spurs team, which was his last team as a player. Playing at the point guard position, he was a perfect blend of offence and defence. Legendary coach Greg Popovich played a massive role in developing Vaughn’s understanding of the game. He even spent 3 more seasons with the franchise as an assistant coach.

We will go through his coaching career to understand his impact on the teams he worked with and the changes he made in the NBA.

Teams coached by Jacque Vaughn

Coaching in the fast-paced and ever-evolving world of the NBA is a very demanding job. While not many make it to the NBA as a player, making it as a coach is equally hard. Jacque Vaughn is one of very few, who has both over the course of his career. Spending the first 12 years in the league as a player he won the championship, and is currently making progress as an impactful coach in the league.

Jacque Vaughn’s last NBA team was the San Antonio Spurs, where he impressed coach Greg Popovich with his game knowledge. Later he joined the franchise as an assistant coach and won the division titles in 2011 and 2012.

Head coach at Orlando Magic (2012-2015)

Jacque Vaughn's NBA coaching career began when he was appointed as a head coach by the Orlando Magic team. The franchise was going through heavy rebuilding, forcing Vaughn to make huge adjustments to his plans. With young and inexperienced players under his wings, Vaughn was tasked to bring the glory days back for the 2-time Eastern Conference Champions.

With a young team and minimal resources, Vaughn found little success in the Eastern Conference team. But Vaughn's commitment to player development and his emphasis on teamwork helped create a positive environment that laid the foundation for the Magic's subsequent progress. He posted below 30%-win performances, leading to his departure from the Magic team.

Brooklyn Nets (2020-current)

In 2019, Jacque Vaughn stepped into the role of interim head coach for the Brooklyn Nets. This transition allowed him to further showcase his leadership skills and strategic thinking. Vaughn faced the challenge of guiding the team through a high-stakes playoff race, and his ability to steer the ship amid adversity was commendable.

While he and his “Troubled” team fought hard to remain competitive in the league, they could post 57%-wins in the 2023 season. They were outdone by the Philadelphia 76ers in the 4 games in the postseason. But the management has faith in Vaughn’s approach and with players like Mikel Bridges, Cam Johnson and Ben Simmons, the team is looking to live up to the expectations under Vaughn’s guidance.