Grant Afseth Says Overhauled Dallas Mavericks Coaching Staff May Be NBA’s Best for Player Development

As the Dallas Mavericks undergo a major overhaul to their coaching staff, DallasHoopsJournal.com senior writer Grant Afseth believes the organization may now boast the NBA’s top development group.

Speaking on the latest episode of the DallasHoopsJournal.com Podcast, Afseth and co-host April Marie-Aguilar discussed the additions of Frank Vogel, Phil Handy, Popeye Jones, Jay Triano, and Mike Pemberthy—each bringing extensive experience in player development, system design, and championship culture.

“This might be the best player development staff in the league,” Afseth said. “And the relationships these coaches have with players like Kyrie, AD, and Max Christie give Dallas a strong foundation heading into the season.”

Handy and Pemberthy, both highly regarded for their on-court skill work, reunite with Jason Kidd and Vogel after spending time together on the Lakers’ 2020 championship staff. Handy also maintains close ties with Kyrie Irving dating back to their Cleveland Cavaliers days, while Pemberthy previously worked with Anthony Davis and was part of the Denver Nuggets’ title run.

The new-look staff is expected to play a critical role in developing No. 1 overall pick Cooper Flagg, who’s entering his rookie season following a standout showing in Las Vegas Summer League.

Afseth noted that beyond their development track record, those same new assistants bring additional tactical value on both ends of the floor.

“Some people have told me they view that as the best player development staff in the league at this point with those two heading that,” he said of Handy and Pemberthy. “But also, people respect Mike Pemberthy’s offensive mind and Phil Handy as a defensive coach, too. They’ll be contributing well beyond skill work.”

For the full conversation, including insights on Flagg, adding D’Angelo Russell, and key injury updates, watch the full podcast episode on YouTube: