Gordon Herbert is emerging as the favorite to become the next head coach of Canada’s men’s basketball team. The 2023 World Cup-winning coach is viewed as a strong contender to replace Jordi Fernández, who recently stepped down after leading the team to their first Olympic berth since 2000.
According to Michael Grange of SportsNet.ca, multiple sources have pointed to Herbert as the leading candidate, with Canada Basketball’s focus on securing a coach with international experience and success. Rowan Barrett, general manager of Canada’s men’s team, highlighted that the new head coach should have a track record of winning medals at major tournaments like the World Cup or the Olympics.
Herbert checks off many of the boxes for the role. A former Canadian Olympic player in 1984, Herbert has enjoyed a lengthy and successful career in Europe. Currently the head coach of Bayern Munich in the EuroLeague, he led the German national team to a bronze medal at EuroBasket 2022 and a gold at the 2023 FIBA World Cup. He also guided Germany to a fourth-place finish at the Paris 2024 Olympics, further cementing his reputation as a top international coach.
Canada Basketball’s quest for an experienced head coach comes at a critical time. The team is eager to build on the momentum from their World Cup success, where they won bronze, and to secure a strong showing at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The Canadians have undergone a rebuilding phase since the 2023 World Cup, where they secured their first Olympic spot in over two decades.
In addition to Herbert’s international success, his familiarity with Canada Basketball’s system could be an asset. Herbert was with the team during World Cup qualifying before Nick Nurse was hired in 2019. His connection with the Canadian program and his successful track record in international basketball make him a strong fit for the job.
While the Canadian national team has faced setbacks in past tournaments, including a fourth-place finish at the 2022 FIBA AmeriCup, they have shown remarkable progress in recent years. The “Summer Core” initiative, which began in 2022, has helped ensure the commitment of players for consecutive summers, culminating in their historic 2023 World Cup run. The team’s success at the World Cup, including a dramatic win over Spain to secure their Olympic berth, highlighted their growing potential on the global stage.
Herbert’s hiring would mark a significant step forward for Canada’s basketball program. With stars like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Dillon Brooks, and Jamal Murray leading the charge, Canada has solidified itself as a major contender on the world stage. The team’s breakthrough in the World Cup, which included a thrilling bronze medal victory over the United States, showed the potential for even greater success in the future.
Despite Canada’s strong performance, their unexpected elimination in the 2024 Paris Olympics has added urgency to their search for a new coach. The team’s quarterfinal exit, following an impressive group stage showing, proved that even with a talented roster, a strong coaching presence is vital for achieving their full potential.
Herbert’s extensive experience and proven success make him the ideal candidate to help guide Canada to its first Olympic medal since 1936. His expertise could be the missing piece in Canada’s quest for international glory, especially as they target a podium finish at the 2028 LA Olympics.
