The Los Angeles Lakers are making headlines with their pursuit of UConn men’s basketball coach Dan Hurley, aiming to bring the back-to-back NCAA national champion coach to the NBA. Sources reveal that the Lakers are preparing a substantial, long-term contract offer to secure Hurley as their next head coach.
Preliminary Discussions and Growing Interest
The Lakers have already initiated preliminary contact with Hurley, with plans to escalate discussions in the coming days. From the start, Hurley has been a prime candidate in the Lakers’ search for a new coach. Despite interviewing several other candidates, Hurley remains at the forefront of their considerations.
Leadership Vision
Lakers’ vice president of basketball operations and general manager Rob Pelinka, along with governor Jeanie Buss, are keen to present their vision of merging Hurley’s successful program with the Lakers’ storied brand. Hurley’s reputation for tactical acumen and elite player development makes him an attractive candidate for the Lakers.
Hurley’s Ambition and Lakers’ Strategic Timing
At 51, Hurley has expressed a long-standing ambition to coach in the NBA. The timing of the Lakers’ offer coincides with the 20th anniversary of their attempt to hire Duke’s Mike Krzyzewski, reflecting a significant shift in the dynamics of college and professional basketball.
Influence of Lakers’ Stars
LeBron James has shown support for Hurley’s sophisticated offensive strategies, enhancing the appeal of Hurley’s potential appointment. With the possibility of drafting USC freshman guard Bronny James, the synergy between Hurley and the Lakers could be pivotal in shaping the team’s future.
Consultation with Anthony Davis
The Lakers are involving All-NBA forward Anthony Davis in the decision-making process for the new head coach, ensuring alignment on offensive and defensive strategies.
Competing Candidates
The Lakers have considered other candidates, including James Borrego, JJ Redick, Sam Cassell, and David Adelman. However, Hurley’s potential has remained the primary focus.
Hurley’s Accomplishments
Hurley’s tenure at UConn has been marked by impressive achievements, including back-to-back national titles and a dominant tournament performance with the highest point differential in NCAA history. His overall record stands at 141-58 (.709), with 12 consecutive double-digit NCAA tournament victories.
Family Legacy and Coaching Career
Dan Hurley, son of Hall of Fame coach Bob Hurley Sr., has a rich coaching history, starting at St. Benedict’s Prep and rebuilding college programs at Wagner and Rhode Island. His brother, Bobby Hurley, is also a notable coach at Arizona State.
Conclusion
The potential hiring of Dan Hurley by the Lakers could significantly impact both college basketball and the NBA. As discussions progress, the basketball world eagerly awaits the outcome of this high-stakes pursuit.
