Mar 26, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone in the second quarter against the Milwaukee Bucks at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images

Grading UNC's Stunning Hire of Michael Malone

Originally posted on North Carolina Tar Heels on SI
By Logan Lazarczyk | Last updated Apr 6, 2026 4:02 PM ET

After weeks of speculation and several coaches forgoing the opportunity to leave their current situation for Chapel Hill, the North Carolina Tar Heels finally hired their next head coach.

According to ESPN's Pete Thamel, North Carolina is hiring longtime NBA coach Michael Malone as its 20th head coach in program history.

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Former Tar Heel center Tyler Hansbrough brought up Malone as a possibility in the days leading up to the Final Four.

"The last name that a lot of people really haven't talked about publicly, who I think could actually get some momentum, is Michael Malone," Hansbrough explained. "His daughter plays volleyball at [North Carolina]. I think he came to a few practices."

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"My question would be: Would he want to go back to the NBA or coach in college? What I want to see from the coach? Obviously, is start to win some games and make deep tournament runs. That what you have to do at [North] Carolina."

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The good news for the Tar Heels is that the 54-year-old head coach has a track record of winning the biggest games at the top level, and that experience should translate to improved success juxtaposed to what has transpired over the last five years. With all that being said, here is an assessment of the hire.

Grading the Hire of Malone

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In terms of winning, this is a clear upgrade over Hubert Davis, who struggled for large stretches during his five-year tenure in Chapel Hill. However, there are questions about how Malone will adapt to the college game, which includes the recruiting process. Additionally, did the Tar Heels potentially settle to hire a coach before the transfer portal opens on Tuesday?

While I don't have an immediate response to the recruitment question, I believe, given the market, this is a good hire for North Carolina. It may not be one that provides instant peace of mind, as Tommy Lloyd or Dusty May would have silenced the doubts right away.

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However, Malone has coached elite players at the NBA level, and the preparation and ability to change game plans and tactics based on opponents should be apparent from the first game. The Tar Heels could have several NBA-level players in 2026, including Dylan Mingo and Maximo Adams. The NBA and college games differ, but Malone should be capable of implementing his ideologies from the professional game to the collegiate level.