By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
While his appointment at LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne appeared to be a done deal over recent months following the departure of head coach Pierric Poupet, which was officially confirmed on Monday, president Tony Parker has cast doubt on his future by reopening the door to a move to the NBA.
Speaking on the set of French television show Telematin, the four-time NBA champion admitted that his ultimate career ambitions lie across the Atlantic.
“My dream leans more towards the NBA,” he stated during his latest media appearance on Thursday.
This desire is reinforced by receiving offers from North American franchises and seeing his former teammate, Tiago Splitter, named head coach of the Chicago Bulls.
The ambitious ASVEL project remains a well-positioned possibility, backed by fresh investments. When questioned about the unique prospect of serving as both president and coach, Parker used humor to address the scenario.
“I could appoint myself,” he described, laughing. “A bit like Gregg Popovich, my coach at the Spurs, who was general manager and appointed himself coach. It’s a possibility.”
Currently focused on his first experience leading a squad with the French U17 national team, Parker has set a clear deadline to end the suspense.
”I’ll decide at the end of the month, so it’s going to happen very, very soon,” promised the 44-year-old former player.
Amidst this personal crossroads, the legendary point guard also praised the meteoric rise of Victor Wembanyama.
“He’s impressive. He’s the best NBA player right now. We’re lucky he’s French,” he said.
Despite expressing sadness over the San Antonio Spurs’ recent losing effort in the Finals of the 2026 NBA Playoffs, presented by Google, Parker insisted the setback is a blessing in disguise for Wemby.
“If he stays healthy, he’ll have a chance to compete with Michael Jordan and LeBron James, who are considered the best in the history of our sport,” he asserted, projecting a massive future legacy for the 22-year-old center.
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