The have thrown down the gauntlet by promoting Tuomas Iisalo to head coach, signaling a deep-seated trust in his ability to catapult the team back among the Western Conference giants. Iisalo, who kicked off the season as an assistant coach, now steps up to the plate with the mission of crafting a robust coaching team to bolster his leadership.
Ever since he grabbed the reins as interim coach following Taylor Jenkins’ March departure, Iisalo has seen the exit of assistants Noah LaRoche and Patrick St. Andrews—key strategists in player development and defense. With their departure, the Grizzlies are in the hunt for at least three new assistant coaches, making the hiring spree a pivotal moment for the franchise’s future triumphs.
Former NBA Players Bring Credibility and Connection
Sprinkling former players into the coaching mix often amplifies a team’s credibility and connection with the squad. Iisalo himself boasts a past life as a pro player, which might just steer him toward this tactic.
Top of the list are Tony Allen and Anthony Carter. Carter, having clocked 13 years in the , has spent two seasons with Memphis as an assistant, where he was instrumental in shaping rising stars like GG Jackson, Yuki Kawamura, and Vince Williams Jr. into sharper shooters. Tony Allen, beloved by Grizzlies fans for his fierce play and known as a six-time All-Defensive Team member, seems like a tailor-made choice to inject passion and seasoned wisdom into the bench.
Experienced NBA Coaches Could Provide Stability
2023 has seen a wave of interim coaches being elevated across the NBA, with teams like the Spurs and Kings leading the charge. The Grizzlies may aim to inject some seasoned stability into Iisalo’s bench through experienced NBA coaches.
Notable names like Frank Vogel and James Borrego shine brightly. Vogel, celebrated for his defensive acumen, could take the defensive reins, freeing up Iisalo to zero in on offensive schemes. Despite still being on the ‘ payroll, Vogel’s wealth of knowledge would be a goldmine. Borrego’s rich coaching resume also makes him a compelling candidate for an assistant spot.
Tapping into European Connections for Familiarity and Chemistry
While Iisalo’s NBA circle might be modest, his European links crack open a treasure trove of coaching talent. Gordon Herbert and Joonas Iisalo are names sparking interest.
Herbert, the seasoned head coach of FC Bayern Munich and the Canadian Basketball National Team, boasts deep professional roots in Finland, Iisalo’s home turf. Although a leap to the NBA isn’t imminent for him, his seasoned perspective remains a treasure. Joonas Iisalo, Tuomas’ younger brother, has been his right-hand man at previous European stints. Their unique sibling synergy could introduce a rare and dynamic twist to the Grizzlies, setting them apart on the NBA coaching map.
As the Grizzlies gear up for the upcoming season, the composition of Tuomas Iisalo’s coaching squad will be a linchpin in their quest to regain Western Conference supremacy. With a tapestry of former players, seasoned NBA coaches, and trusted European comrades, Memphis is all set to lay down a rock-solid foundation for glory.
