MIAMI (USA) -  Following the Tokyo Olympics, USA Basketball will have a new managing director for the men’s national team for the first time since 2005. Basketball Hall of Famer and Olympic gold medalist Grant Hill will succeed current director, 81-year-old Jerry Colangelo, as the program attempts to build on capturing the Olympic crown in the last three events.

"I was both honored and privileged at the opportunity to replace someone like Jerry Colangelo," Hill said to FIBA.  "Jerry’s been incredible in terms of helping to build a sustainable foundation for success for USA Basketball. To continue with that legacy and to work closely and in conjunction with the USA Basketball staff and the USA Basketball Board is something that I’m excited about."

Under Colangelo, the United States recorded only four total losses and rebounded from an international competition dry spell that began in 2000. They have grown into the heavyweight of hoops with their plethora of NBA superstars and bright, young players.

Hill will now bring a different perspective as a former 19-year NBA veteran and a staple on many USA rosters. The former forward was the No. 3 overall pick in the 1994 NBA draft and went on to play for four different organizations, the Detroit Pistons, Orlando Magic, Phoenix Suns and LA Clippers. The seven-time All-Star was honored as an All-NBA first teamer in 1997 and won NBA Co-Rookie of the Year in 1995.

At the international level, Hill won two goal medals – 1996 Olympics in Atlanta and 1990 FIBA Americas U18 Championship in Montevideo – and lost just a single game in his 27 appearances. Most importantly, Hill understands "the pride and the responsibility" that comes with wearing the USA jersey.

"I do understand the value, the importance and the significance of international competition, and ultimately that perspective of having been an athlete and having competed on that stage will only add to my ability to serve as managing director," Hill said.

Now comes the next step for Hill and the USA basketball program that will likely feature many challenges along the way, including assembling a roster and coaching staff. The amount of sheer talent both on the court and on the sideline that the country possesses magnifies every decision along the way. However, Hill is up for the tasks that lie ahead.

"Obviously, the main goal is to have success and to ensure our teams represent the United States with honor and respect," Hill said when asked about the future of the program.

"Also, I think recognizing where we can continue to improve, where we can continue to enhance the experience for everyone involved (is important). How we can best serve our athletes, our coaches and just to continue to apply the best practices to our USA Basketball program overall."

While USA must first handle their business in the Tokyo Olympics this summer, they can look forward with high hopes for the future as a basketball lifer takes over at the helm.

FIBA