What Does It Feel Like to Represent India in the NBA Summer League?
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Synopsis
Dipesh Mistry's journey from India to the NBA Summer League is a story of perseverance and passion. As the first Indian to coach at this level, he reflects on his roots, the process of achieving his dreams, and the inspiration he hopes to provide to future generations of Indian coaches.
Key Takeaways
- Dipesh Mistry is a pioneering figure as the first Indian head coach in the NBA Summer League.
- His journey highlights the significance of heritage and representation in sports.
- He aims to inspire future Indian coaches through his success.
- Mistry values the process of learning and growth in his coaching career.
- His story demonstrates that dreams can be achieved with dedication and hard work.
New Delhi, July 25 (NationPress) Dipesh Mistry had the prestigious opportunity to represent India at an elite level as he took on the role of head coach for the Sacramento Kings during the 2025 NBA Summer League, leading the team to the finals.
Having previously served as the Head Video Coordinator and Player Development Coach over three seasons with the Kings, Mistry is set to join Doug Christie’s coaching staff in the 2025/26 season as an assistant coach and player developer.
In an exclusive interview with IANS, Mistry shared his thoughts on this remarkable achievement, his ties to India, and the fulfillment of a lifelong aspiration.
“Upon graduating from college, I embarked on a journey to backpack across the globe. A significant stop was India, where I wanted to reconnect with my roots, exploring the heritage of my parents and grandparents,” Mistry recounted.
“I traveled to Mumbai and took a train to Navsari, Gujarat, where I spent a few weeks immersing myself in my family's history. It has remained with me ever since,” he added.
“While I may not be fluent in Gujarati, I can comprehend it. Being the first to achieve this is incredibly humbling. Growing up, I often looked for role models who shared my background in such positions,” Mistry explained to IANS.
He identified Erik Spoelstra, head coach of the Miami Heat, as a relatable figure due to their shared experiences as individuals of diverse ethnicities. Mistry expressed pride in being a source of inspiration for aspiring Indian coaches.
“Erik Spoelstra is the closest example of someone with a different ethnicity making it to the top through hard work in the video room. Having someone who resembles you can instill hope and motivation. I know many Indian coaches in the NBA and colleges are looking for someone to look up to, and I feel deeply honored to be that person,” he remarked.
Before joining the Kings, Mistry spent five seasons with the Atlanta Hawks, progressing from head video coordinator (2018-2019) to coaching assistant and special assistant to the head coach (2021-2023). He began his NBA career with the Phoenix Suns in the 2017-2018 season. Originally from Canada, Mistry was the video coordinator for Canada’s Senior Men’s National Team from June 2017 to August 2018 and worked with the Senior Women’s National Team from 2013 to 2016, participating in the Rio 2016 Olympics. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Ryerson University (now TMU).
For Mistry, the journey is about the process. From having an NBA-themed wallpaper on his laptop to waking up at 5:30 AM to kickstart his daily routine, he is living his dream step by step, aspiring to reach the pinnacle of becoming an NBA head coach, though he acknowledges it may take time.
“It’s all about the process. I rise early every day to begin my journey. Everyone has their unique approach, and mine aligns closely with Doug’s. I remain committed to preparing scouting reports, analyzing films, jotting down notes, sharing insights with coaches, and honing my skills on the court. I keep my focus and adapt to where the journey leads me,” he stated.
“My ultimate ambition is to be an NBA head coach one day. While I understand it may not happen immediately, I’m eager to absorb knowledge from the coaches around me. If it materializes, that’s fantastic; if not, I’m content. What I cherish most is the process of learning and growing along this journey,” he concluded.
Point of View
Reinforcing the notion that dreams can be realized through hard work and dedication. As a media outlet, we celebrate such milestones that contribute to a more inclusive sporting landscape.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Dipesh Mistry?
Dipesh Mistry is the first Indian to serve as a head coach in the NBA Summer League, leading the Sacramento Kings in 2025.
What achievements does Mistry have in his coaching career?
Mistry has previously worked with the Atlanta Hawks and the Phoenix Suns, and he has extensive experience in player development and video coordination.
How does Mistry connect with his Indian heritage?
Mistry has traveled to India to connect with his family's roots and expresses pride in being a role model for aspiring Indian coaches.
What are Mistry's future goals?
His ultimate ambition is to become an NBA head coach, and he values the learning process along the way.
What does Mistry say about representation in sports?
Mistry emphasizes the importance of having role models who look like you, inspiring hope and motivation in future generations.
