The Dallas Mavericks have made a major move to strengthen their coaching staff ahead of the upcoming 2025-2026 NBA season, with the official additions of Phil Handy and Popeye Jones as assistant coaches. The announcement, first reported by NBA insider Marc Stein, marks a pivotal shift in the franchise’s approach to player development and postseason ambitions under head coach Jason Kidd.
As the Mavericks aim to build on their recent playoff performances, the franchise is investing in elite coaching experience, particularly in player development and defensive strategies. The addition of Handy and Jones—two highly respected names in coaching circles—sends a strong signal that Dallas is going all-in on building a championship-caliber staff.
Phil Handy Brings Championship Pedigree and Elite Development Skills
At 53 years old, Phil Handy joins the Mavericks with an impressive résumé and a reputation as one of the NBA’s premier player development coaches. Handy, who most recently served with the Los Angeles Lakers from 2019 to 2024, has been instrumental in shaping the careers of some of the league’s biggest stars, including LeBron James, Kyrie Irving, and Kawhi Leonard.
His coaching résumé includes championship rings with the Cleveland Cavaliers (2016), Toronto Raptors (2019), and Los Angeles Lakers (2020)—a rare achievement among active assistants. Known for his detail-oriented approach, sharp basketball IQ, and ability to connect with players on and off the court, Handy is expected to play a pivotal role in developing Dallas’ young core.
Handy replaces God Shammgod, who recently departed for a similar role with the Orlando Magic. In Dallas, his primary focus will be helping to mold the talents of Cooper Flagg, the Mavericks’ highly touted No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, along with other promising young pieces on the roster.
“Phil is a game-changer when it comes to player development,” one league source said. “He’s been around champions, and now he’s in a perfect spot to help shape the next generation in Dallas.”
Popeye Jones Returns to Dallas in Key Assistant Role
Joining Handy on the Mavericks’ revamped coaching staff is Popeye Jones, a former NBA player and seasoned assistant with a wealth of experience across multiple franchises. Jones, who previously played for the Mavericks from 1994 to 1996 and worked as a development coach in Dallas from 2007 to 2010, now returns to the organization in a more prominent role—as the team’s third assistant coach.
Jones most recently served as an assistant with the Denver Nuggets, where he played an integral part in their 2023 NBA Championship run. He has also spent time on the coaching staffs of the Brooklyn Nets, Indiana Pacers, and Philadelphia 76ers. Known for his expertise in frontcourt development and rebounding, Jones is expected to work closely with the Mavericks’ big men, bringing defensive grit and inside presence to the coaching philosophy.
“Popeye has a proven ability to get the best out of his players—especially bigs,” one coach noted. “He understands how to build toughness in the paint and structure in defensive rotations.”
Reunited with Kidd: Familiar Faces Fuel the New Coaching Era
The hirings of Handy and Jones are part of a larger coaching overhaul in Dallas. Head coach Jason Kidd is reportedly aiming to surround himself with coaches he has previously worked with and trusts, ensuring chemistry and shared vision within his coaching team.
Handy and Kidd were both part of the 2020 championship staff with the Lakers, building a rapport that has now carried over to Dallas. Their reunion could bring back some of the successful principles that led the Lakers to their bubble title.
Meanwhile, Jared Dudley, another trusted assistant under Kidd, is reportedly in talks with the Denver Nuggets about a potential coaching opportunity. No final decision has been announced, but the Mavericks are preparing for the possibility of his departure.
Mavericks All-In on Championship Vision for 2025-26
With the additions of Phil Handy and Popeye Jones, the Dallas Mavericks are signaling their intent to compete at the highest level in the upcoming season. These experienced hires not only bolster Jason Kidd’s coaching arsenal but also lay the groundwork for a more focused approach to developing young talent and solidifying the team’s defensive identity.
As Dallas looks to rise in the Western Conference hierarchy, their coaching staff overhaul could prove to be the missing piece in the pursuit of an NBA title.
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