Quick Bytes
- UConn’s Dan Hurley declines the Lakers’ head coaching offer to stay with the Huskies.
- Former Lakers guard JR Smith supports Hurley’s decision to remain in college basketball.
- Hurley aims for a three-peat with UConn after back-to-back NCAA titles.
- The Lakers to reconsider other candidates for their head coaching vacancy.
UConn’s Dan Hurley Stays Put, JR Smith Applauds Decision
In a surprising turn of events, Dan Hurley, the successful UConn coach, has turned down an offer to become the head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers, choosing instead to continue his tenure with the Huskies.
The Lakers’ search for a new head coach took an unexpected twist when they approached two-time NCAA champion Dan Hurley. Despite the allure of the NBA and a potential salary increase, Hurley decided to remain at UConn, aiming for a third consecutive title with a strong team. JR Smith, a former Lakers player who was coached by Hurley in high school, publicly endorsed Hurley’s decision to stay, highlighting the coach’s favorable position at UConn and the challenges he would have faced with the Lakers.
Smith, who has a personal connection with Hurley, expressed his belief that Hurley made the best choice for his career. He also praised Hurley’s potential to become one of the all-time great college basketball coaches. With Hurley’s decision to stay put, the Lakers are expected to revisit other coaching candidates, though none may generate the excitement that Hurley’s candidacy did.
Following his decision, Hurley released a statement expressing his appreciation for the Lakers’ offer but reaffirmed his commitment to UConn and his excitement for the future with the Huskies. The Lakers’ search continues as they look to fill the head coaching vacancy with a candidate who can bring success back to the franchise.
