Nine-Time NBA Champion Steve Kerr Endorses Phil Andrew for Congress (IL-9)
A Fellow Gun Violence Prevention Advocate, Kerr Cites Shared Values for a Safer Future
(Chicago – February 19th, 2026) – Steve Kerr, nine-time NBA champion, Golden State Warriors head coach, and beloved member of the Chicago Bulls' three-peat championship team, has endorsed Phil Andrew for Congress in Illinois' 9th District. The endorsement is rooted in a profound connection: each has been directly impacted by gun violence and has dedicated themselves to preventing others from experiencing the same tragedy.
“Like me, Phil is a survivor of gun violence. He was shot in one of the first school shootings in 1988,” said Kerr. “Since then, he’s dedicated his life to service. Phil understands what it takes to solve the epidemic of gun violence. I encourage you to consider supporting Phil Andrew for Congress.”
Watch Kerr’s full endorsement of Andrew in the video below.
"I am deeply honored by Steve's support," said Andrew. "Steve and I share an understanding that only survivors of gun violence can truly know. We both lost something precious to senseless violence, and we've both chosen to turn that pain into purpose. His voice has been instrumental in moving our nation toward action, and I'm proud to stand with him in this fight."
In January 1984, Steve Kerr’s father, Dr. Malcolm Kerr, was assassinated by gunmen in a targeted terrorist attack. The tragedy greatly shaped Kerr's worldview and informed his lifelong advocacy against gun violence, as well as his willingness to speak out on social justice and public policy issues.
On May 20, 1988, in the aftermath of the Hubbard Woods Elementary School shooting in Winnetka, one of the nation's first modern mass school shootings, then 20-year-old Phil Andrew was shot in the chest while attempting to disarm the shooter after she invaded his family's home. The bullet ripped through both lungs and grazed his heart. The experience transformed his life's trajectory, leading him to a 21-year career as an FBI Special Agent and hostage negotiator, a career where he dedicated himself to protecting others from violence.