The Philadelphia 76ers are set to hire Phil Handy, former Los Angeles Lakers coach and associate of LeBron James, as their new top assistant coach. This move strengthens their championship credentials, following a recent form of 0W-0D-5L, with their last result being a 114-144 loss to the New York Knicks on 2026-05-10.
What happened?
NBA insider Marc Spears reported that the 76ers are finalizing a deal to hire Handy, who departs the Dallas Mavericks. Handy has a strong relationship with James and previously worked with 76ers head coach Nick Nurse.
Why it matters for Philadelphia 76ers
Handy is known as a strong player development coach, which should help All-Star guard Tyrese Maxey and rising second-year guard VJ Edgecombe. His reputation as a player development coach would have helped rising Mavericks star Copper Flagg continue his ascent toward becoming a franchise player.
What comes next?
The hire has generated excitement among 76ers fans, with one content creator saying, "Incredible hire for the Sixers." Another user claimed, "Phil and Bron together again??? Oh championship time." The 76ers will look to bounce back from their recent form, which includes five consecutive losses, as they prepare for the upcoming NBA season. And the Mavericks are disappointed to lose Handy, with Mavericks beat writer Ron Harrod Jr. saying, "This is a way bigger loss than Klay Thompson. A BIG loss for the Mavericks." The 76ers will face tough competition from teams like the defending NBA champion New York Knicks, San Antonio Spurs, and Oklahoma City Thunder. But with the addition of Handy to their coaching staff, the 76ers are looking to make a deep playoff run. So, the upcoming season is expected to be exciting for 76ers fans, with the team's championship credentials strengthened by the hire of Handy. The 76ers' recent form may be a concern, but with the addition of Handy and other key players, they are looking to turn things around. As content creator Will Rucker said, "2027 NBA Champions Philadelphia 76ers." Only time will tell if the 76ers can live up to their championship expectations.
