Ranking the best available NBA head coaching candidates

SAN ANTONIO, TX - APRIL 02: Head coach Jay Wright of the Villanova Wildcats celebrates after the 2018 NCAA Men's Final Four National Championship game against the Michigan Wolverines at the Alamodome on April 2, 2018 in San Antonio, Texas. (Photo by Jamie Schwaberow/NCAA Photos via Getty Images) /

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OAKLAND, CA – APRIL 24: Assistant Coach Ettore Messina of the San Antonio Spurs reacts to a play during the game against the Golden State Warriors in Game Five of Round One of the 2018 NBA Playoffs on April 24, 2018 at ORACLE Arena in Oakland, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Andrew D. Bernstein/NBAE via Getty Images) /

7. Ettore Messina

The top assistant for the Spurs burst into the NBA limelight during this year’s playoffs when he was forced to take over the team in Popovich’s absence. He wasn’t able to pilot the Spurs to a surprise upset of the Warriors, but he did acquit himself well during his brief cameo.

In truth, Messina doesn’t need to prove his coaching ability to anyone. His experience as a coach goes well beyond his association with Popovich and the Spurs. Prior to coming to the United States, Messina was able to win four EuroLeague titles. That doesn’t guarantee NBA success, but it’s a great sign that he’s able to serve as a head coach.

The experience with San Antonio only strengthens his resume. It’s not as if he hasn’t learned anything during his time with the Spurs. Standing next to Popovich on a daily basis should only serve to improve his resume.

Messina is one of the most likely people on this list to actually secure a head coaching job this summer. He may not find the right fit this offseason, but it’s only a matter of time before he gets the chance to pilot his own team.

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