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Toronto Raptors: 3 coaches who could replace Jama Mahlalela

By Mike Luciano

TORONTO, ON - FEBRUARY 26: Assistant coaches Jama Mahlalela of the Toronto Raptors (Photo by Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images)
TORONTO, ON - FEBRUARY 26: Assistant coaches Jama Mahlalela of the Toronto Raptors (Photo by Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images) /
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Teresa Weatherspoon, Toronto Raptors
PORTLAND, OREGON – MARCH 18: Assistant coach Teresa Weatherspoon (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images) /

2. Teresa Weatherspoon

Quite frankly, Weatherspoon’s resume and respect could qualify her for some head coaching opportunities. A Hall of Famer due to a tremendous WNBA career, the former Louisiana Tech head coach was one of the few bright spots on a Stan Van Gundy-led Pelicans team that missed out on the playoffs once again.

With New Orleans looking for a new head coach who could bring in a new armada of assistants they are familiar with, Toronto could stand to benefit from more Pelicans turnover. If she hits the market, the Raptors should be on the phone with her as soon as possible.

Teresa Weatherspoon would help the Toronto Raptors remain competitive.

If the Raptors are looking for someone who can help develop younger players, both emerging superstar Zion Williamson and rookie guard Kira Lewis have sung Weatherspoon’s praises. With years of experience and some strong references, Weatherspoon could be a quality addition.

I’d like to believe that we’re at a point in the NBA where Weatherspoon’s gender will have no impact on her ability to be perceived as a quality assistant. She is a darn good coach and motivator, plain and simple, and if Mahlalela is going to San Francisco, adding someone with her resume could help Toronto move on from him without missing a beat.