USA Basketball Chairman Jerry Colangelo announced Friday that Gregg Popovich will take over as head coach of the men’s national team beginning in 2017.
Current head coach Mike Krzyzewski recently revealed that he is stepping down after the 2016 Rio Olympics. Coach K will remain with the team as a special advisor once Popovich takes over.
Popovich, 66, is considered by most to be the best coach in the NBA. He has won five NBA titles and been named Coach of the Year three times. Krzyzewski applauded USA Basketball for giving Pop the job.
“Gregg Popovich is the ideal choice to take over as head coach of the USA program,” Coach K said. “His long track record of success – both in terms of winning championships and creating a culture of excellence – are well documented and, rightfully so, he is considered among the very best coaches in the world. Because of his military background in which he selflessly served his country, coupled with his unique ability to bring out the best in his teams, this leadership appointment makes perfect sense.”
This is probably a good sign for the San Antonio Spurs as well. While there are rumors that Pop was close to retiring from the NBA last year, his health must be where he wants it to be if he has committed to Team USA. It appears this Spurs legend could wind up being right about his prediction for Popovich’s career.
