After a tense exchange during the third quarter of the match against the Orlando Magic, Warriors coach Steve Kerr and forward Draymond Green had a heated argument, leading Green to leave the bench and head to the locker room. On Wednesday, Kerr described that moment as not his “finest hour”.

Following the confrontation, Kerr noted that he and Green engaged in a vocal dispute but considered the situation private, although he revealed more details on Wednesday.

“Monday night was not my finest hour. I should have remained composed in the huddle. I regret my behavior during that exchange. I apologized to Green, and he apologized to me. We also extended our apologies to the team.

“Such moments can occur, especially between two extremely competitive individuals like Green and myself. Over the past 12 years of our relationship, these conflicts have arisen occasionally, and I cannot take pride in them.”

Green returned to the bench for the final quarter but did not play again in the game, which the Warriors won 120-97, leading 89-83 at the start of the fourth quarter.

Kerr emphasized their long history together, stating, “There’s a consistent pattern here because we both understand one another, and I appreciate his strengths. Our achievements reflect our collaborative efforts, including the four championship banners we have. I believe we could not have accomplished that without him. His ability to harness his passion is crucial to our success.

“I let my own emotions get the best of me that night, where I should have maintained composure. We are more alike than people might think. Although we haven’t had an explosive conflict in a few years, it is not unprecedented in our 12-year partnership. We’ve always managed to overcome such challenges and even grow from them.”

The Warriors are currently at a .500 record (15-15) and will face top draft pick Cooper Flagg and the Dallas Mavericks (12-19) on Christmas Day at 5 p.m. ET.