When Mike Krzyzewski announced that he would not be returning as the head coach of USA Basketball, speculation began as to who would be ideal to replace the legendary college coach. Immediately names like Gregg Popovich and Doc Rivers‘ name surfaced as potential candidates to be the new shot-caller of Team USA.
While the front has been quiet on who will actually be the replacement, Denver Nuggets coach George Karl offered his thoughts on who the new coach should be while talking with the Denver Post. He gave a strong endorsement to Gregg Popovich.
“I hope he gets the USA job,” Karl said. “I think he wants it. He’s a military guy who, I think, brings a dignity to representing the United States, and he’s also earned the respect of the basketball world.”
Popovich said all the right things when reporters asked him about coaching Team USA, saying it would be an honor. The name of Boston’s Doc Rivers has been thrown out there too.
I asked Karl, who coached Team USA in 2002, if he would want to be an assistant on Pop’s staff for Team USA.
“If he would present me that opportunity, I would definitely have to consider it,” Karl said, seemingly honored even at the suggestion.
I don’t think USA Basketball could go wrong with Popovich or Rivers, so it will be interesting to see who they finally decide on.