UNC Names Michael Malone as New Basketball Coach After Nuggets NBA Championship Win
North Carolina is set to hire Michael Malone, the former coach of the Denver Nuggets and 2023 NBA champion, to lead its basketball program, as confirmed by sources to CBS Sports' Matt Norlander. This decision follows the recent signing of Tommy Lloyd to a long-term extension with Arizona and Dusty May of Michigan withdrawing from consideration. Malone, who last coached the Nuggets during the 2024-25 season, had a notable tenure, marking his 10th year with the team. The hiring is significant as it represents the first time UNC has looked outside its own ranks for a head coach since bringing in Roy Williams from Kansas before the 2003-04 season. Despite a successful season led by multi-time MVP Nikola Jokic, Malone was let go by the Nuggets after failing to meet expectations. At 54 years old, the Queens, New York native began his coaching career in college before transitioning to the NBA in 2001 with the New York Knicks. Key points about Malone's hiring: UNC athletic director Bubba Cunningham expressed confidence in securing a top coach, stating, "We know we've got the most highly sought after job in the country." Malone's daughter, Bridget, plays volleyball for North Carolina, creating a personal connection to the program. Billy Donovan, coach of the Chicago Bulls, and Ben McCollum of Iowa were also in consideration for the position. Former Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski praised the hire, noting the shift towards a pro model in college sports. As the Tar Heels aim to enhance their NIL resources to $12 million by the 2026-27 season, Malone’s experience could be pivotal in navigating this new landscape. CBS Sports will continue to monitor updates on this developing story.
Source: CBS Sports - 2026-04-06