Los Angeles Clippers coach Tyronn Lue is replacing the Phoenix Suns’ Monty Williams on the USA Basketball coaching staff.
Williams cited family commitments for his decision to step down, managing director Grant Hill said Wednesday.
Lue will be on the staff through 2024. On the horizon for USA Basketball is qualifying for the World Cup and the 2024 Olympics in Paris.
“I am truly honored to represent our country and join this great group of coaches,” Lue said in the news release. “Coaching USA Basketball has always been a dream of mine, and I’m humbled to take on the challenge.”
Lue, who won the 2016 NBA Finals with the Cleveland Cavaliers, joins Erik Spoelstra of the Miami Heat and college coach Mark Few of Gonzaga as assistants under head coach Steve Kerr of the Golden State Warriors.
“I’m excited to add Ty to what is already an outstanding staff,” Kerr said. “He is a brilliant coach who I’ve admired for years. Ty’s experience and expertise will add an important dynamic to the group as we face the challenges ahead. We are lucky to have him.”
Williams was part of the staff when the U.S. won the gold medal at the 2016 Olympics. He was selected in December 2021 to a three-year stint as an assistant.
“After further consideration, I have decided to withdraw as an assistant coach for the 2022-24 USA Men’s National Team,” Williams said in the news release. “This has been a difficult choice but given the timing and the demands of the commitment, it is the best choice for myself and my family.”
–Field Level Media