The Dallas Mavericks are continuing to strengthen their coaching staff ahead of the 2025-26 season. In addition to reportedly agreeing to a contract extension with head coach Jason Kidd, the team is also expected to bring in former head coach Frank Vogel as its lead assistant. This move, initially reported by Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, would mark Vogel`s return to an assistant coaching role, his first since 2011. He is anticipated to replace Sean Sweeney, who recently agreed to join the San Antonio Spurs staff.
Vogel`s arrival in Dallas would reunite him with Jason Kidd. The pair previously worked together on the Los Angeles Lakers staff that secured the 2020 NBA championship in the league`s bubble. Vogel served as the head coach of that title-winning team, with Kidd as an assistant. In their new roles in Dallas, their positions will be reversed, with Vogel working under Kidd.
The Mavericks had previously engaged Vogel in October as a consultant. His most recent head coaching position was with the Phoenix Suns during the 2023-24 season. Despite guiding the team to the Western Conference`s No. 6 seed, the Suns suffered a swift first-round playoff exit, leading to Vogel`s dismissal after only one year. This outcome was seen as disappointing for a franchise built around a core of Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal.
Vogel possesses extensive experience as an NBA head coach, having had stints with the Indiana Pacers, Orlando Magic, Los Angeles Lakers, and Phoenix Suns. His last assistant coaching role was with the Pacers during the 2010-11 season. Beyond winning an NBA championship, he coached two All-Star teams in 2014 and 2020. Over his career as a head coach, Vogel holds a winning record of 488-422.
These coaching staff adjustments in Dallas occur as several members of their current staff have drawn interest from other organizations. Alongside Sweeney`s departure for San Antonio, player development coach God Shammgod is also reportedly moving to the Orlando Magic for an assistant coaching position. Furthermore, head coach Jason Kidd himself was a target for the New York Knicks` head coaching vacancy, but the Mavericks reportedly blocked their request for an interview. Kidd`s expected contract extension signals his long-term commitment to Dallas.
A key focus for Kidd`s updated staff will be the development of the number one overall draft pick, Cooper Flagg, who recently joined the franchise as the consensus top prospect in his class. While Flagg is seen as a future cornerstone, the presence of experienced veterans on the roster is expected to reduce the immediate pressure on the rookie to carry the team, a situation uncommon for top draft picks. The team`s composition aims to maintain competitiveness in the playoff picture during Flagg`s crucial initial development phase.
Separately, Kyrie Irving is currently recovering from a season-ending knee injury. To reinforce the guard depth, the Mavericks have also reportedly agreed to a two-year contract with D`Angelo Russell.
Jasper Hawthorne