By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
The New Zealand Breakers have entered a new era with the appointment of world-class tactician Gordon Herbert as their head coach on a two-year contract. Succeeding Finnish coach Petteri Koponen, the 67-year-old play-caller arrives with an elite resume, having famously steered Germany to the FIBA World Cup 2023 title.
Herbert takes the reins of the Auckland-based club while simultaneously maintaining his prestigious role as the head coach of the Canadian senior men’s national team. While managing both a club and a national federation is a notoriously demanding task, he remains entirely unfazed by the logistical challenge.
“You have to balance both of them, but I wouldn’t have done this if I weren’t 100% committed. With the timetable for both jobs, it gives me the ability to be 100% committed to both jobs,” he confidently explained during an interview with NBL NOW, addressing any skepticism surrounding his dual roles.
The move to the National Basketball League is the fulfillment of a long-held professional ambition rather than a sudden career pivot for a longtime head coach who has led several European teams. He has closely monitored the growth of basketball in the Oceania region for well over a decade.
“For the last 10 to 15 years, I’ve always been interested in coming down there and coaching in the league. I think it’s an under-the-radar league,” Herbert revealed.
Looking ahead to the upcoming NBL campaign, the veteran coach has already started building a championship culture focused on a strong defensive identity. He plans to construct his tactical system around the established foundation of star guard Parker Jackson-Cartwright and forward Sam Mennenga.
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