Summary
Erik Spoelstra, head coach of the Miami Heat, has been appointed as the head coach of the USA Basketball Men’s National Team through 2028. He will lead the team in major competitions, including the 2027 FIBA Men’s World Cup in Qatar and the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. His selection follows his previous roles in USA Basketball and he is recognized for his long-standing success with the Miami Heat.
Key Facts
- Erik Spoelstra has been named head coach of USA Basketball Men’s National Team until 2028.
- He takes over from Steve Kerr, the head coach of the Golden State Warriors.
- Spoelstra's past roles include head coach of the 2021 USA Basketball Men’s Select Team and assistant during the 2023 FIBA Men’s World Cup.
- Team USA will aim for a sixth consecutive Olympic gold medal under his leadership in 2028.
- Spoelstra is the third coach to lead Team USA at a home Olympics, joining Bob Knight and Lenny Wilkens.
- Grant Hill, managing director of USA Basketball, praised Spoelstra's coaching capabilities and character.
- Spoelstra has been with the Miami Heat for 18 seasons and is the longest-tenured NBA coach with one team.
- Spoelstra cited Pat Riley, his mentor, as a significant influence on his career with the Heat and USA Basketball.
