The 2028 Olympics are set to thrust Los Angeles into the global spotlight, but the anticipated event casts uncertainties over the leadership of Team USA Basketball. Steve Kerr, who has successfully navigated the team through several significant tournaments, is expected to step down as head coach following the Paris 2024 Games. Kerr's succession plan, a testament to his vision for continuity and growth, is already taking shape.
A Changing of the Guard
Kerr, who took over from Gregg Popovich, views his tenure as part of a defined cycle. "To me, it's a two-year; it's a cycle," Kerr remarked, reflecting on his time with Team USA. "Pop coached a World Cup and the Olympics, now it's my turn to pass the baton. I think that's kind of how it should be."
This philosophy is indicative of Kerr's broader perspective on building a sustainable program. "I think it was different the last go-around with Coach K (Mike Krzyzewski) and Jerry (Colangelo), when they were really establishing this culture and this system where guys had to commit for a couple years. Made sense for Coach K to stay on. But I think where we are now, one cycle and you move on," Kerr added.
Frontrunners for the Role
With Kerr's departure imminent, the search for his successor is well underway. Erik Spoelstra and Tyronn Lue have emerged as the frontrunners for the coveted position. Both bring extraordinary credentials to the table. Spoelstra has steered the Miami Heat to two NBA championships and six finals appearances, while Lue has led the Cleveland Cavaliers to three NBA Finals, clinching a championship in 2016.
Spoelstra and Lue are not new to the Team USA setup. They served as assistant coaches under Kerr during the Paris Games, further solidifying their candidacies. Their recent experiences include leading the 2023 FIBA World Cup squad to a fourth-place finish, a performance that, while commendable, highlighted areas needing improvement for future competitions. The team had previously finished seventh in the 2019 FIBA World Cup, signaling a steady if slow climb up the ranks.
Player Considerations
Speculation is also rife regarding the player roster for the 2028 Olympics. Jaylen Brown is reportedly being considered for inclusion, adding a dynamic edge to the team. Meanwhile, the situation surrounding Joel Embiid remains tentative as he contemplates representing Cameroon in Los Angeles. Another key player, Anthony Edwards, has already announced his decision not to compete in the 2027 FIBA World Cup, potentially reshaping the strategic outlook for Team USA.
The impending changes in leadership and player participation underscore the evolving dynamics within Team USA Basketball. As the 2024 Paris Games draw near, the focus remains on finishing strong under Kerr's guidance while laying the groundwork for the future. The prospective appointment of either Spoelstra or Lue signals a commitment to maintaining excellence, leveraging their extensive NBA coaching experience and familiarity with the international stage.
With Los Angeles preparing to host the world in 2028, Team USA's journey promises to be as captivating off the court as it will be on it. The baton may be passed, but the drive for supremacy continues unabated, reflecting a tradition of excellence and adaptive growth in the ever-competitive arena of international basketball.