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Sources: Phil Handy to Join Dallas Mavericks as Assistant Coach

Originally posted on Dallas Hoops Journal
By Grant Afseth | Last updated Jul 9, 2025 5:56 PM ET

The Dallas Mavericks are adding another respected name to their reshaped coaching staff. Phil Handy, one of the NBA’s premier player development coaches, is joining Jason Kidd’s bench ahead of the 2025–26 season, sources tell DallasHoopsJournal.com.

Handy will play a significant role in player development, taking over a role previously held by God Shammgod, whose contract expired after last season. Shammgod has since joined the Orlando Magic in a similar capacity.

Handy, regarded as one of the top skill development coaches in the NBA, brings championship experience and a strong reputation for working with elite talent. He most recently served on the Los Angeles Lakers’ staff through the 2023–24 season, and has contributed to titles with the Lakers, Toronto Raptors, and Cleveland Cavaliers.

His track record includes working closely with stars such as LeBron James, Kyrie Irving, and Kawhi Leonard. In Dallas, Handy is expected to play a central role in developing the team’s young core, which now includes No. 1 overall pick Cooper Flagg. However, he’s also regarded for his defensive mind.

Handy joins an overhauled coaching staff under head coach Jason Kidd, now including associate head coaches Frank Vogel and Jay Triano. Popeye Jones , who will focus on defense, was hired to replace Jared Dudley as the third assistant. Mike Penberthy, another former Lakers assistant, has also been added, focusing on offense and skill work.

Vogel is expected to lead the team’s defensive efforts, while Triano will play a significant role with the offense. Handy is expected to anchor the player development program with Penberthy.

Internally, the Mavericks view this staff as balanced under Kidd. It has a potent mix of offensive and defensive voices and is arguably the NBA’s best at player development.

Handy’s arrival helps fill a key need after Shammgod’s departure and further aligns the team’s development infrastructure with its long-term goals.