NBA legend Tony Parker will start his coaching tenure with the French U-17 national team.
The former San Antonio Spurs point guard is expected to make his first appearance at the 2026 World Cup in Turkey, marking his debut in his new career, per L’Equipe.
“I talked a lot about this new career with my father—how I would start it. And it seemed logical to both of us to begin with the French national team, and specifically a French youth team,” Parker told L’Equipe.
Parker said that he applied for the U17 coaching position in honor of his father’s birthday, which was on October 15, as he had aimed to become a coach, according to statements from previous months.
“So I applied for the U17 coaching position. And, as a symbol, on my father’s birthday, October 15 (Tony Parker Sr. passed away on the 5th), the French Basketball Federation called me to say I got the job,” he added.
The 43-year-old aims to become an NBA coach as his primary goal after his 18 seasons in the league, with multiple rings and extensive experience.
“My dream is to coach in the NBA,” Parker told French news outlet L’Equipe in an Aug. 21 report. After retiring in 2019, Parker has undertaken several efforts, including co-owning a wine vineyard, racehorse training, and more.”
