Michael Malone Takes Over as North Carolina Head Coach
michael-malone-named-north-carolina-head-coach
Former Denver Nuggets coach Michael Malone has been appointed head coach at the University of North Carolina, ESPN’s Pete Thamel reported Sunday.
The Tar Heels turned to the 54-year-old after dismissing Hubert Davis and conducting a wide-ranging search for a marquee leader. Gonzaga’s Tommy Lloyd and Florida Atlantic’s Dusty May, both recent Final Four coaches, were early targets but chose to remain at their programs. Chicago Bulls coach Billy Donovan was next in line, according to Brendan Marks of The Athletic, yet UNC shifted course and reached an agreement with Malone.
Malone compiled a franchise-best 471-327 record with Denver and guided the Nuggets to their first NBA championship in 2023. Since leaving the bench, he has worked as an analyst and commentator for ESPN. His NBA résumé made him a potential candidate for several professional openings this offseason, but he instead opted for the college ranks and one of the sport’s most storied programs.
Donovan, who signed a multi-year extension with Chicago after the Knicks were denied permission to interview him last summer, reportedly preferred to wait until the Bulls’ season ended on Sunday before speaking with North Carolina. With the Tar Heels’ vacancy now filled, Donovan may be more inclined to remain in Chicago.
Source: HoopsRumors
