Basketball veteran Gordon Herbert is set to become the next head coach of the New Zealand Breakers, sources told Fox Sports Australia, with the club poised to secure one of the most accomplished coaching figures in international basketball following an extensive search to replace Petteri Koponen.
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Herbert, 67, is widely regarded as one of Europe’s most accomplished coaches, building an impressive resumé across both club and international basketball. He has coached powerhouse European clubs, including Bayern Munich, but is best known for his success on the international stage.
04 June 2025, Baden-Württemberg, Heidelberg: Basketball: Bundesliga, MLP Academics Heidelberg – FC Bayern Munich, championship round, semi-final, matchday 2. Munich coach Gordon Herbert gesticulates. Photo: Uwe Anspach/dpa (Photo by Uwe Anspach/picture alliance via Getty Images)Source: Getty Images
The Canadian-Finnish dual citizen coached Germany men’s national basketball team from 2021 to 2024, leading the program to historic success, and is currently the head coach of Canada men’s national basketball team. Before moving into coaching, Herbert spent 12 years playing professionally in Finland.
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Since beginning his coaching career in 1994, Herbert has established himself as one of the most respected figures in world basketball, with decades of experience across Europe and international competition.
After parting ways with Petteri Koponen, the Breakers missed out on coaching targets Judd Flavell and Mody Maor. However, their pursuit of a marquee signing now appears close to fruition, with Herbert bringing arguably the strongest coaching pedigree currently available on the market.
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