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Entry Level Nba Coaching Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Nba Coaching information

See salary details

$29.5K

$48.8K

$61.5K

How much do entry level nba coaching jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level nba coaching in the United States is $48,812.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,000.00 and $53,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level NBA coach?

Entry level NBA coaching jobs refer to positions on an NBA team's coaching staff that typically require less experience and serve as a starting point for a coaching career in professional basketball. These roles may include positions such as player development coach, video coordinator, or assistant coach. Individuals in these jobs work under the direction of more senior coaches, helping with practices, analyzing game footage, and supporting player growth. Entry level coaching staff often gain valuable experience and exposure to NBA operations, which can help them advance to higher coaching positions over time.

How to get an entry level NBA coaching job?

To secure an entry-level NBA coaching position, candidates typically need a strong background in basketball, such as playing experience or coaching at lower levels, along with relevant certifications like a coaching license. Gaining experience as an assistant coach, working with youth or college teams, and networking within the basketball community can improve chances of breaking into the NBA coaching staff.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an entry level NBA coach?

To thrive as an Entry Level NBA Coach, you need a solid understanding of basketball fundamentals, game strategy, and player development, typically supported by coaching experience at lower levels and a relevant degree. Familiarity with video analysis tools, playbook software, and player performance tracking systems is often expected. Strong leadership, communication, and motivational skills are essential to effectively work with players and staff. These skills ensure the coach can develop talent, implement strategies, and contribute to the team's overall success.

What are the responsibilities of an entry level NBA coach?

As an entry-level NBA coach, you can expect to handle responsibilities such as assisting with practice drills, analyzing game footage, preparing scouting reports, and supporting player development initiatives. You'll often work closely with assistant coaches and the head coach, providing valuable insights and feedback during practices and games. Your role is integral to ensuring that both players and coaching staff are well-prepared, organized, and able to execute strategies effectively. These tasks not only help you build foundational coaching skills but also contribute directly to the team's day-to-day performance and long-term success.

What is the difference between Entry Level Nba Coaching vs Assistant Nba Coach?

AspectEntry Level Nba CoachingAssistant Nba Coach
Required CredentialsBasketball coaching experience, often a college or amateur backgroundSimilar coaching experience, often with some NBA exposure
Work EnvironmentTraining camps, team practices, game daysSame as Entry Level, with additional responsibilities
Employer & Industry UsageNBA teams, basketball organizationsNBA teams, professional basketball

Entry Level Nba Coaching typically involves initial coaching roles focusing on player development and assisting with team strategies, often requiring prior basketball experience. An Assistant Nba Coach usually has more experience and responsibilities, supporting the head coach in game planning and player management. Both roles operate within NBA teams and share similar environments, but Assistant Coaches generally have a higher level of responsibility and experience.

What cities are hiring for Entry Level Nba Coaching jobs?

Cities with the most Entry Level Nba Coaching job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Nba Coaching jobs?

The most popular types of Nba Coaching jobs are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Nba Coaching jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Nba Coaching jobs are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Nba Coaching job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,812 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

Basketball Communications Associate

Oklahoma City Thunder

Oklahoma City, OK

Part-time

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

As a Basketball Communications Associate, you will assist the media and Thunder’s Basketball Communications staff during the 2026-27 NBA season. This part-time, entry-level role offers a unique opportunity to gain experience in the dynamic environment of professional sports.

This seasonal position begins in September 2026. Associates are expected to work a majority of Thunder home games and assist with various projects on non-game days.

In this role you will:

  • Oversee the Thunder press room before, during, and after home games

  • Obtain quotes from players and coaches following the games

  • Assist local and national media with inquiries according to company policies

  • Attend press conferences and transcribe select media events throughout the season

  • Assist with game-day arena setup, with availability required from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on game days

  • Assemble media and visiting team packets and deliver media information and credentials to visiting team hotels the day before home games

  • Compile media reports and notes for the front office

  • Other duties as assigned

What you’ll bring to the role:

  • Must be at least 18 years old

  • Interest in pursuing a career in public relations or professional sports

  • General knowledge of the National Basketball Association and the Oklahoma City Thunder

  • Strong attention to detail and a commitment to high-quality work

  • Excellent oral and written communication skills

Additional details:

This is a part-time position reporting to the Senior Basketball Communications Lead. The work schedule includes more than 30 home games, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, during the 2026–27 NBA season. Physical demands include walking and climbing in-arena stairs, and working in environments with loud noise and flashing lights. The primary work locations are the Paycom Center and the Thunder ION in Oklahoma City. Must have valid driver’s license and transportation as local travel is required.

The Thunder recognizes that teams with a variety of backgrounds, perspectives and skills make a stronger company. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, the Thunder organization considers applicants fairly on the basis of qualifications, experience and business needs and provides equal opportunity regardless of race, color, age, sex, ancestry, ethnicity, national origin, religion, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other legally protected status. Applicants are considered regardless of past legal system involvement, based upon the needs of the role, nature of and recency of legal history. The Thunder is committed to a welcoming and inclusive environment for all employees through its RAVE culture – Respect and Value Everyone.