Day: April 28, 2023

The Toronto Raptors have begun a wide search for their next head coach to replace Nick Nurse.

The Raptors have gathered permission to interview several top assistant coaches to open up the process, including: Golden State’s Kenny Atkinson, Milwaukee’s Charles Lee, Phoenix’s Kevin Young, San Antonio’s Mitch Johnson, Sacramento’s Jordi Fernandez, Memphis’ Darko Rajakovic and Miami’s Chris Quinn.

The Raptors also secured permission to speak to Las Vegas Aces coach Becky Hammon.

Ime Udoka was expected to be a candidate for the Toronto job, but he agreed to terms with the Houston Rockets this week.

Qatar will host the 2027 FIBA World Cup, FIBA announced on Friday. Qatar recently hosted the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

The drawing for groups for the 2023 FIBA World Cup will be held this Saturday. The tournament is being jointly hosted by the Philippines, Indonesia and Japan. The 2023 FIBA World Cup will take place from August 25 through September 10.

The Milwaukee Bucks were eliminated from the playoffs by the Miami Heat in the first round after just five games. The Bucks blew significant fourth quarter leads in both Games 4 and 5.

“I’m told Mike Budenholzer’s status with the Bucks is shaky after the team’s five-game loss to the Heat,” wrote Shams Charania. “A lack of coaching adjustments, especially defensively, seems to be the main reason for the uncertainty.”

Zach Lowe of ESPN previously reported that league insiders were “extremely skeptical” Budenholzer would be brought back next season.

Budenholzer has two seasons and $16 million remaining on his contract.