After days of speculation, UConn head coach Dan Hurley has decided to turn down an offer from the Los Angeles Lakers and stay with the Huskies. This decision comes as a relief to UConn fans and Governor Ned Lamont, who took to social media to celebrate the news.
Hurley, who has led UConn to back-to-back NCAA championships, was reportedly a serious candidate for the Lakers job. However, after meeting with Lakers officials and weighing his options over the weekend, he ultimately chose to remain at UConn.
Governor Lamont, who was in contact with Hurley throughout the decision-making process, has pledged to ensure that Hurley is the highest-paid college coach if he stays with the Huskies. This commitment reflects the state’s support for Hurley and the success he has brought to the program.
Under Hurley’s leadership, UConn has been dominant in the NCAA tournament, boasting a perfect 12-0 record and winning games by an average of 21.7 points. The team will now set its sights on a historic third consecutive national title, a feat that has only been achieved once before in men’s college basketball history.
Hurley’s decision to stay at UConn marks a rare instance of a coach turning down the opportunity to coach in the NBA. Despite the allure of coaching a team like the Lakers and working with superstar LeBron James, Hurley is committed to continuing the championship culture he has built at UConn.
As the Huskies prepare for another title run, fans can rest assured that Hurley’s dedication to the program remains unwavering. The Lakers, on the other hand, will have to continue their search for a new head coach as they look to fill the vacancy left by Darvin Ham.
