Keon Ellis Cites Reunion With Coach Jordi Fernández as Key Factor in Nets Decision
Ellis stated that familiarity and trust with Fernández were the primary reasons for signing with Brooklyn.
Keon Ellis identified his reunion with head coach Jordi Fernández as the paramount reason for signing with the Brooklyn Nets this offseason. Ellis played under Fernández for two seasons (2022-2024) when Fernández was an assistant coach with the Sacramento Kings.
"In this game — and it is a business — having someone like Jordi being the head coach, someone you’re familiar with, [is big]. You know all the schemes, you know what he’s about, you know what they want to run," Ellis said Friday after practice. "It’s a safe space right there. He’s familiar with my game, I’m familiar with how he rocks. That was the No. 1 thing."
Ellis, a 6-foot-4 guard known for his defensive capabilities and three-point shooting, signed a two-year, $18 million contract with the Nets in the offseason. The contract includes a full mutual option for the second year. He expressed confidence that the established rapport with Fernández will allow him to make a significant impact.
Last season, Ellis averaged 6.7 points per game, splitting time between the Sacramento Kings and the Cleveland Cavaliers after a February trade. He shot 36.3 percent from three-point range, a dip from his 42.9 percent clip over his first three NBA seasons. The Nets are hopeful that Ellis can also provide a defensive spark, noting his strong performance metrics in steals, blocks, turnovers forced, and deflections per 100 possessions last season.
Fernández praised Ellis's defensive instincts and work ethic. "I think Keon’s got the best hands in the NBA, and that’s hard to teach," Fernández said. "At the same time, you want to be disciplined and follow the schemes, whatever the game plan is. I trust him. I know he’s very diligent with his work and everything, and I know he can perform at a high level. He’s going to help us a lot at the defensive end."
Teammates have also noted Ellis's early contributions. Michael Porter Jr. described Ellis's start as "strong," highlighting his defense, shooting ability, and overall solid play. The comfort level and mutual understanding between Ellis and Fernández are expected to be significant assets for the Nets.