Erik Spoelstra” width=”1200″ height=”800″ srcset=”https://www.basketusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/USATSI_24595234.jpg 1200w, https://www.basketusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/USATSI_24595234-210×140.jpg 210w, https://www.basketusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/USATSI_24595234-500×333.jpg 500w, https://www.basketusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/USATSI_24595234-768×512.jpg 768w, https://www.basketusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/USATSI_24595234-640×427.jpg 640w, https://www.basketusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/USATSI_24595234-320×213.jpg 320w” sizes=”(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px”/>Time flies. Last week, Erik Spoelstra began his 17th season as Miami’s head coach. In the history of the NBA, only two coaches have played so long on a single team: Gregg Popovich obviously, 29 seasons with San Antonio, and Jerry Sloan, who spent 23 seasons on the Jazz bench.
This longevity is exceptional and it contrasts even more with the situation in the league currently.
Half of the coaches on the benches – 15 out of 30 – have not been in their position for more than three years. And in 2024, no less than eight coaches – more than 25% of the NBA – have been dismissed…
“This is the sad reality of this profession”analyzes Erik Spoelstra for the AP. “I’m disappointed when I hear these numbers because there are a lot of talented coaches who, if they had more structure, continuity and confidence from their team, could do the same thing as me here in Miami. »
Among recent examples, we can think of Monty Williams, who left Detroit after only one season. Or even to Adrian Griffin, who was unable to finish his first year in Milwaukee. Without forgetting Frank Vogel, sacked after only one season in Phoenix.
“There have been 14 changes of coaches over the last two years,” recalls the Miami coach, promoted to the Heat bench in 2008. “If you look at it from that angle, it’s sad for coaching. Staff do not have enough time to establish a culture, to develop good habits, to face the adversity necessary to take a step forward. I’m grateful to have had this structure and stability here. »
And it’s the same thing in the WNBA, where no less than six teams, out of twelve, are currently looking for a coach!
