The Golden State Warriors are mourning the loss of John Beam, the esteemed Oakland football coach who was fatally shot on November 13, 2025. Beam, who dedicated over four decades to coaching in the East Bay, was tragically shot in his office at the Laney College athletic fieldhouse and later pronounced dead. The news has sent shockwaves through the community, prompting expressions of sorrow and calls for action against gun violence from notable figures, including Warriors coach Steve Kerr.
Kerr and Curry Pay Tribute
Before a game in San Antonio, Kerr wore a shirt emblazoned with Beam’s name and a black heart, reflecting his respect for the coach’s legacy. During his pregame press conference, Kerr described Beam as a “legend” and emphasized the profound impact he had on countless individuals in Oakland. “It’s a really difficult time for people in Oakland right now,” Kerr stated. “This is a sad day for the Bay Area and for Coach Beam’s family.”
Beam was not only a beloved local figure but also gained national recognition through his appearance in the Netflix documentary series Last Chance U, which highlighted his coaching of the Laney College Eagles. Kerr’s emotional remarks were accompanied by a sincere call to action regarding gun violence. “On behalf of the Warriors, I want to extend our condolences and remind everybody we have to be the change,” he said. “As a community, we need to insist that we address gun violence issues.”
Following the defeat of the San Antonio Spurs, Steph Curry echoed Kerr’s sentiments during his own press conference, emphasizing the significance of Beam’s loss to the Bay Area. “Being from the Bay, and understanding that an icon was lost in John Beam, we’re sending our thoughts and prayers to his family, the Laney College community, and all of Oakland,” said Curry. He added, “Senseless violence is tough, and it gives us perspective about what we get to do every day. I know he was a legend and touched a lot of lives.”
Community Impact and Ongoing Issues
John Beam’s contributions to the Oakland community extended beyond coaching; he inspired generations of young athletes and fostered a sense of unity within the area. His unexpected death has reignited discussions about the persistent issue of gun violence affecting many urban communities. Kerr’s and Curry’s calls for change resonate with a growing desire among residents for safer environments.
As the Warriors continue their season, they face not only the challenges of the game but also the emotional weight of the community’s grief. Additionally, the team is dealing with injuries on the roster, as Jonathan Kuminga will not play against San Antonio due to knee soreness. Kuminga, averaging 13.8 points and 6.6 rebounds per game this season, has become an important player for the Warriors. Kerr expressed hope that Kuminga would recover soon, stating, “Hopefully over the next couple of days, as he visits with our training staff every day, they’ll get him on track soon.”
John Beam’s legacy as a coach and mentor will not soon be forgotten in Oakland, where the impact of gun violence is felt deeply. As the Warriors honor his memory, the call for community action against violence remains urgent and necessary.
