The University of North Carolina is reportedly set to make a bold and unexpected move by appointing Michael Malone as the new head coach of its men’s basketball program. The former Denver Nuggets leader, who guided the franchise to an NBA championship in the 2022–23 season, is expected to bring his professional experience to the college level.
North Carolina’s decision comes after other potential options did not materialize. Tommy Lloyd chose to remain with the Arizona Wildcats after agreeing to a long-term extension, while Dusty May withdrew from consideration. This opened the door for Malone, who was not initially seen as a leading candidate.
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Malone most recently coached the Nuggets during the 2024–25 season, marking his 10th year with the team. Despite consistent performances and strong contributions from star player Nikola Jokić, the organization decided to move in a different direction, parting ways with both Malone and general manager Calvin Booth in 2025.
At 54, Malone has built a long coaching career that began at the college level, where he served as an assistant at programs such as Oakland, Providence, and Manhattan. He transitioned to the NBA in 2001 with the New York Knicks and later spent over a decade as an assistant coach with multiple teams. His first head coaching role came in 2013 with the Sacramento Kings, before taking charge of Denver in 2015.
This hiring reflects North Carolina’s willingness to look beyond its traditional coaching circle. It is the program’s first external coaching search since hiring Roy Williams in 2003. The move also follows the departure of Hubert Davis after the team’s recent NCAA Tournament exit.
Athletic director Bubba Cunningham had earlier expressed confidence in attracting a high-profile coach, highlighting the program’s strong legacy and national reputation.
Although Malone has limited direct ties to the university, there is a personal connection—his daughter is part of North Carolina’s volleyball team.
The hiring has drawn attention across the basketball world. Former Duke Blue Devils coach Mike Krzyzewski acknowledged Malone’s ability while noting that transitioning from the NBA to college basketball can take time. He also suggested that such moves may signal a broader shift toward a more professional structure within college athletics.
Overall, this decision marks a significant change in direction for North Carolina basketball, bringing NBA-level experience into one of college basketball’s most historic programs.