Erik Spoelstra believes international basketball can be one of the best ways for NBA players to prepare for a new season while continuing their development.
The Miami Heat and USA Basketball head coach discussed the benefits as Heat players Simone Fontecchio and Nikola Jovic represented Italy and Serbia, respectively, during the 2027 FIBA World Cup Qualifiers.
“Playing for their countries is what they’re really passionate about. That’s what I love seeing,” Spoelstra said.
He believes international games provide players with both intense competition and opportunities to take on responsibilities they may not normally have in the NBA.
“Secondly, it’s an opportunity to play a different role and grow. I mean, these are playoff games. The level and the intensity of these games is terrific. We always encourage our guys to play for their countries. One because it’s the passion and the excitement around it, but also it prepares you for an NBA season better than anything else.”
Spoelstra had an opportunity to watch both of his players when Serbia defeated Italy 76-64. Fontecchio scored 15 points for Italy, while Jovic finished with five points, two rebounds and one steal before fouling out.
Spoelstra also revealed that international basketball played a role in Miami’s interest in Fontecchio. He first took particular notice of the Italian while working as an assistant with Team USA at the 2023 FIBA World Cup.
“One of the reasons I really recruited Simo [Fontecchio] was because I had to scout Italy when I was an assistant for Team USA,” he said. “He was playing great in that tournament, and I was like, ‘Hey, this guy is a free agent, or we can get him in a trade. We’re interested’.”
Jovic’s development with Serbia has similarly impressed Spoelstra. The young forward has gradually received greater responsibilities with his national team, including moving into the starting lineup.
“And for Niko [Jovic], he’s a young player, so each year he has played for the national team, he has gotten better, with a bigger role. He’s starting now, so I think it has been great for him as well.”
