Miami Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra is on the verge of taking on one of the most prestigious jobs in basketball.
Multiple reports say Spoelstra is expected to be named the next head coach of USA Basketball’s men’s national team for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics and the 2027 World Cup in Qatar.
While a contract has not yet been finalized, Associated Press reporter Tim Reynolds noted that “any deal would have to be approved by the USA Basketball board of directors,” who are set to meet later in October. The agreement could be completed before the end of the month.
Spoelstra would replace Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr, who stepped down after leading Team USA to gold at the Paris Olympics.
It was the fifth straight Olympic gold medal for the American men’s team.
Spoelstra, who served as an assistant under Kerr during both the Paris Games and the World Cup before that, previously said he would be “honored to be considered” for the role.
If confirmed, Spoelstra would become the first coach in Miami Heat history to lead the U.S. men’s national team.
Entering his 18th NBA season, he is currently the longest-tenured head coach in the league, by six years. GMs recently voted him “the best coach in the NBA,” and also named him “the best manager and motivator of players,” according to the league’s annual general manager survey.
Spoelstra’s resume speaks for itself. He’s led the Heat to six NBA Finals appearances, winning two championships in 2012 and 2013 alongside LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh.
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