Former NBA Coach of the Year Dwane Casey has emerged as one of the leading candidates to become the first head coach of BC Roma SPQR, the newly formed Italian basketball club backed by a high-profile ownership group that includes NBA superstar Luka Dončić. Reports indicate that the club is evaluating Casey alongside several experienced European coaches as it prepares for its inaugural season.
Since stepping down as head coach of the Detroit Pistons in 2023, Casey has served as the franchise’s senior adviser. Before joining the Pistons’ front office, he built an accomplished coaching résumé with the Minnesota Timberwolves, Toronto Raptors, and Detroit Pistons.
His greatest success came with Toronto, where he led the Raptors to a franchise-record regular season and earned the 2018 NBA Coach of the Year award.
One reason Casey is considered a strong fit is his long-standing relationship with Donnie Nelson, a co-owner of BC Roma SPQR. The two previously worked together with the Dallas Mavericks, where Casey served as an assistant coach during the team’s 2011 NBA championship season.
That familiarity could play an important role as the Italian club builds its coaching staff for a new era.
BC Roma SPQR was established after acquiring the sporting rights of Vanoli Cremona and relocating the club to Rome ahead of the 2026-27 season.
The team is expected to compete in:
The ownership group includes Luka Dončić, Donnie Nelson, Rimantas Kaukenas, and legendary Italian coach Valerio Bianchini, highlighting the club’s ambition to become a major force in European basketball.
While Casey is reportedly among the frontrunners, BC Roma SPQR has not finalized its coaching search. Club officials are continuing to evaluate both NBA and European coaching candidates before making a final appointment.
If selected, the role would mark Casey’s first head coaching position since leaving the Pistons and his first experience leading a professional club in Europe.
Dwane Casey could soon begin a new chapter in his coaching career. The former NBA Coach of the Year has reportedly emerged as a leading candidate to guide BC Roma SPQR, an ambitious new Italian club aiming to establish itself in European basketball. Although no decision has been made, Casey’s experience, championship pedigree, and existing relationship with the club’s ownership make him one of the strongest contenders for the position.
