Michael Malone to Rescue North Carolina Tar Heels

Per ESPN’s Pete Thamel, North Carolina plans to hire Michael Malone as its next head coach after firing Hubert Davis in March. Malone spent 12 seasons as an NBA head coach, including 10 with the Denver Nuggets where he went 471-327, reached six straight postseasons and won the 2023 title; he was let go in April 2025 and has been an ESPN analyst since. The search also involved Tommy Lloyd, Dusty May and reportedly targeted Billy Donovan before UNC landed on Malone. Merlin sees a bold gamble. Malone brings pro experience, structure and championship pedigree, but college hoops lives by recruiting and roster turnover. He can restore discipline and attract attention, yet converting NBA success to NCAA wins will take time and a new recruiting rhythm.