League NBA Coaching career 1986–present Nationality American Name John Welch | NBA draft 1986 / Undrafted Role Basketball player Pro career 1986–1989 Positions Coach | |
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John Welch (born February 17, 1963) is an American former basketball player currently working as an assistant coach for the Los Angeles Clippers of the National Basketball Association (NBA). He played professionally in New Zealand where in 1988, he earned Most Outstanding Guard and All-Star Five honors playing for Waitemata. Throughout his coaching career, he has worked with or worked under various notable basketball people, including Jerry Tarkanian, Jerry West, Hubie Brown, George Karl and Tim Grgurich.
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Early life
Born in Portland, Maine, Welch attended Rancho High School in North Las Vegas, Nevada and was an All-State selection. He later played college basketball for Nevada and UNLV before starting a successful coaching career.
Fresno State
At Frenso State, Welch worked under head coach Jerry Tarkanian, a 2013 Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame coach inductee.
Denver Nuggets
Welch worked under George Karl during his tenure with the Denver Nuggets. Karl expressed his appreciation towards Welch, saying, "he's got great passion ... [and] tries something every day that we can get better at."
Brooklyn Nets
Welch began his tenure with the Nets in 2013, the first season Jason Kidd was head coach.
Sacramento Kings
On July 31, 2015, Welch was hired by the Sacramento Kings to be an assistant coach.
Los Angeles Clippers
On September 23, 2016, Welch was hired by the Los Angeles Clippers.