Report: Steve Kerr emerges as favorite to replace Gregg Popovich as Team USA coach

Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr has reportedly emerged as the favorite to replace Gregg Popovich as coach of the U.S. senior men's national basketball team, sources told NBA insider Marc Stein.

Popovich recently guided Team USA to a gold medal at this summer's Tokyo Olympics. The San Antonio Spurs bench boss, who succeeded Duke's Mike Krzyzewski after the 2016 Olympics, was under contract until this year's Games. 

Kerr was among Popovich's assistants at the 2019 FIBA World Cup and the 2020 Olympics. He has been head coach of the Warriors since the 2014-15 season, leading the franchise to three NBA titles. 

Kerr has previously expressed interest in taking over for Popovich.

"Of course I'd be interested," Kerr said of becoming head coach of Team USA in August, via The Athletic. "I mean, who wouldn't be? I'll leave it at that. I have no idea how it will all transpire; there are a lot of great candidates out there. And if I were to be considered, that would be an honor." 

In addition to Kerr, Miami Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra is reportedly a candidate for the job. However, new USA Basketball managing director Grant Hill prefers a coach who has more experience in the international game.