GMs Pick Mike Conley as Best Future Coach
NBA general managers identified the veteran guard as the active player most likely to succeed as a head coach.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Basketball
Live Poll
Do you think veteran players make the best head coaches?
NBA general managers named Mike Conley the player most likely to transition into a successful head coach in a new league-wide survey. The veteran guard received 50 percent of the total votes from executives across the league.
Why it matters
This recognition highlights the high regard in which Conley is held by league leadership following a lengthy and respected career. His reputation for leadership and professional conduct appears to define his standing among his peers and management.
Conley secured 50 percent of the vote in the poll, significantly outpacing other top-ranked players like T.J. McConnell at 13 percent. The veteran is currently entering his 20th NBA season and holds four career Sportsmanship Awards.
The players
Mike Conley
He is a veteran NBA guard entering his 20th season who has earned four Sportsmanship Awards.
T.J. McConnell
He is an active NBA player who received 13 percent of the votes in the general manager survey.
Jalen Brunson
He is a professional basketball player who was identified by 10 percent of GMs as a future coaching candidate.
Draymond Green
He is an NBA player who received 7 percent of the votes in the poll regarding future coaching prospects.
The details
The survey polled NBA general managers regarding their perspectives on players and coaches heading into the new season. Conley, who entered the NBA in 2007, was the clear favorite to lead a team from the sidelines in the future.
Timeline
2007: Mike Conley began his professional career in the NBA.
October 15, 2026: The results of the annual league survey were officially published.
Season Trajectory
This poll reflects a broader shift in the league where veteran experience and leadership qualities are highly valued for future staff roles. By identifying players like Conley as coaching prospects, the league continues its trend of grooming long-tenured veterans for administrative transitions.
Conley's high standing among management suggests that his career longevity and professional reputation influence how the league perceives player-coach potential. Fans and observers can monitor his performance in his 20th season as a benchmark for his future leadership prospects.
The takeaway
The poll serves as a formal recognition of the leadership qualities Conley has displayed throughout his two decades in the league. It highlights how player reputations built on sportsmanship can shape long-term career outlooks beyond the court.
Further reading
For more insights on the league, check out the latest updates in Basketball.
Source note: This article includes information reported by NESN.
Live Poll
Do you think veteran players make the best head coaches?
