Rick Carlisle has reportedly moved a step closer to signing a new contract with the Dallas Mavericks.

The 55-year-old has been with the Mavericks since 2008 and led the franchise to their only NBA title three years later.

Carlisle is entering the final year of a four-year contract, and ESPN claims that owner Mark Cuban and president of basketball operations Donnie Nelson are both eager to secure his services for the foreseeable future.

The report suggests that a five-year extension between Carlisle, who is the third longest-serving coach in the NBA behind Gregg Popovich and Erik Spoelstra, and the Mavericks is close to being agreed.

Dallas begin the new season against the New Orleans Pelicans on Wednesday.