Can You Still Be a Player-Coach in the NBA?

Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla and small forward Jayson Tatum during an NBA game in October 2022.
(Wikimedia Commons/Boston Celtics)
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  • The NBA has prohibited a player-coach in the league since the 1984-85 season.
  • Dave Cowens was the last player-coach in the NBA.
  • Joe Mazzulla and Will Hardy are the youngest NBA coaches right now, at 36 years old.

The NBA has witnessed several active player coaches throughout its history, although the basketball odds probability for this to happen is slim.

But does the league still have an active player-coach, and is it still permitted? Find out below.

Does the NBA Still Have an Active Player-Coach?

The NBA prohibits active player-coach, as stated in the league’s collective bargaining agreement. However, an active player can accept an assistant coaching job.

Dave Cowens was the last player-coach in the league. He coached the Boston Celtics in the 1978-79 season while he was an active player for the team.

Who Is the Youngest Coach in the NBA Right Now?

As of Nov. 20, Joe Mazulla of the Boston Celtics and Will Hardy of the Utah Jazz are the youngest coaches in the NBA today, at 36 years old. Mazulla is five months younger than Hardy.

Mazulla was the youngest NBA coach to win a title when he led the Celtics to the promised land during the 2023-24 season. He was 35 years and 353 days old.

Who Has the Most NBA Titles as Player and Coach?

Steve Kerr has the most NBA titles as a player and a coach with nine.

Kerr won five NBA championships as a player with the Chicago Bulls (3) and the San Antonio Spurs (2) and has four championships with the Golden State Warriors as their head coach. 

Kerr’s credentials cement his reputation as a constant winner who improves a team’s NBA championship odds.

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