Glass elevated from summer to G League
MIAMI — In the wake of a second consecutive efficient run as coach of the Miami Heat’s summer program, former video coordinator Eric Glass on Friday was named coach of the team’s G League affiliate, the Sioux Falls Skyforce.
Glass replaces Nevada Smith, who no longer is with the Heat.
The move with Glass was one of three announced by the team.
Adam Simon was promoted to vice president of basketball operations from his previous role of vice president of player personnel. Simon retains his title as Heat assistant general manager.
Eric Amsler has been promoted to director of player personnel for the Heat and also will serve as GM of the Skyforce.
Glass said he felt he met his summer mandate.
“I feel like most of those guys can say that they came out of this better,” he said.
Glass will be entering his 10th season with the Heat. He has served as video coordinator/player development coach the past two seasons.
In 2014, Glass served as an assistant coach under Mike Fratello for the Ukraine National Team during the FIBA World Cup and the 2013 EuroBasket Championships.
Glass joined the Heat as an
intern in 2010, previously serving as video coordinator at UC Irvine in 2009-10.
“We are excited that he will now be leading the Skyforce as we embody our philosophies and cultures with Skyforce and Heat players,” Heat GM Andy Elisburg said in a statement.
Recent Skyforce coaches have included current Heat head
coach Erik Spoelstra, Heat assistant Dan Craig and current Orlando Magic assistant Pat Delany.
Among those players whom Glass is expected to coach in Sioux Falls are Heat summerleague prospects Jeremiah Martin, Chris Silva and Kyle Alexander.
There also could be time in Sioux Falls for second-round pick KZ Okpala, who practiced under Glass with the Heat during summer league.
Simon is entering his 25th season
with the Heat, which has included being named the G League’s inaugural Executive of the Year in 2016.
“Adam has played an integral role in our player moves for more than 20 years,” Elisburg said.
Amsler is entering his 16th season with the Heat, having previously served in several capacities in basketball operations.
“We are looking forward to seeing him bring his leadership to the Skyforce,” Elisburg said of Amsler.