TEMPE – Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr stepped away from the basketball court to participate in Arizona State University’s Dialogues for Democracy, a civic engagement series focused on leadership and public life.
In a thoughtful conversation with political strategist and commentator David Axelrod, Kerr reflected on topics ranging from his global upbringing to his views on leadership, social responsibility and American democracy during his team’s recent road trip to Phoenix.
The event, held at ASU’s Walton Center for Planetary Health on April 7, drew a crowd of students, faculty and local residents interested in hearing how Kerr’s personal experiences and public platform have shaped his approach to leadership beyond sports.
ASU’s Dialogues for Democracy series aims to spark conversations that bridge civic, cultural, and professional worlds. Kerr’s visit did just that, highlighting how leadership in sports can model the values essential to a thriving democracy—compassion, accountability and courage.
A global childhood and tragedy abroad
Kerr opened the conversation by sharing details about his early years living in the Middle East. Raised in cities such as Beirut and Cairo, he was exposed to a wide range of political and cultural perspectives during his formative years. Those experiences gave him a unique lens through which to understand international affairs and the complexities of global conflict.
“I was incredibly blessed to live this life of a worldly experience … I had no idea at the time what an incredibly powerful influence that would have on the rest of my life,” Kerr said. “It just taught me how similar we all are, and how different cultures shape the world in a positive way.”
Much of the evening focused on Kerr’s father, Malcolm Kerr, a respected scholar of Middle Eastern studies who became president of the American University of Beirut in 1982. His tenure was cut tragically short when he was assassinated outside his office in 1984 during a period of escalating violence in Lebanon’s civil war. At the time, the younger Kerr was a freshman at the University of Arizona.
“It was devastating … but I still am proud,” he said of his father’s decision to return to Beirut despite the risk. “He felt like that was his calling – to be there, to help educate people in the Middle East, to foster the cultural bridge.”
Public figures and social responsibility
Throughout the event, Kerr discussed his role as a public figure and the responsibility he feels to speak out on pressing issues. Known for his vocal support of gun-control legislation and his criticisms of racial injustice, Kerr has often been one of the most politically engaged voices in professional sports.
“We had three consecutive moments of silence for mass shooting victims, week after week. And I just thought, ‘Do we just keep doing these, or do we actually do something?’” Kerr said. “I made mistakes when I spoke out, but I learned that if you’re going to speak publicly, limit it to what you really know about—and make sure you know what you’re talking about.”
He acknowledged the challenges that come with taking public stances, including backlash from fans and political commentators. Nonetheless, he emphasized the importance of using influence to elevate conversations that contribute to a more informed and engaged society.
Connecting coaching to democratic values
In conversation with Axelrod, Kerr drew connections between the values he applies as an NBA coach and those essential to a functioning democracy. He highlighted the importance of listening, collaboration and mutual respect—qualities that serve both on a basketball team and within a democratic society.
“I’m the coach, but I’m not the dictator,” he said. “Great ideas come from anywhere. And when everybody feels they have a voice and a stake – it’s incredible how powerful that is.”
For Kerr, culture is at the heart of everything. He believes it’s what brings a team together and drives success.
“What is culture? It’s values. What do you stand for? If those things come alive every day, then you’ve got something—and the collaboration really hums,” he said.
Kerr also spoke about the unique role sports can play in promoting dialogue and understanding. In his view, a basketball locker room often brings together individuals from vastly different backgrounds, forcing collaboration and empathy.
“You meet people from all different backgrounds, different languages… and you realize we’re all connected,” he said. “A locker room brings people together in a way that’s rare in public life.”
Encouraging civic engagement
The conversation returned frequently to the importance of active participation in democracy. Kerr encouraged the audience to remain engaged, not just during election cycles, but in everyday actions – whether through volunteering, staying informed or initiating meaningful conversations.
“There’s a lot of great things the government has done that are being eliminated,” Kerr said. “My number one complaint about what’s happening is the lack of dignity and respect for each other. That’s across the board.”
“To me, civic responsibility doesn’t require a microphone,” he added. “It starts with showing up, paying attention, and choosing not to remain indifferent.”
A lasting impression
While the evening included lighter moments – touching on Kerr’s NBA championships, his time playing alongside Michael Jordan, and his experience coaching Stephen Curry – the most impactful parts of the event centered on his reflections about identity, loss and purpose.
Kerr experienced a reminder of that loss recently when the home he lived in during high school – where his mother was still living – was destroyed in the Palisades Fire in Los Angeles. His former high school was also burned in the blaze. The experience, he said, highlighted the fragility of the things we hold dear and how quickly life can change.
“None of us are safe from any of life’s devastation,” Kerr said. “The cost of humanity and love and joy is the loss we all experience. Every single one of us is going to experience terrible loss – it’s just the way it works.
“Perspective is everything. Phil Jackson used to say, ‘Treat your job like the fate of the world depends on it – but remember, it’s just a damn basketball game.’”
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