Michael Malone, who won an NBA championship in 2025 with the Denver Nuggets but has never been a collegiate head coach, was hired by North Carolina to lead its men’s basketball team, the university announced Tuesday.
Malone, a 24-year NBA coaching veteran, has been working as a studio analyst for ABC/ESPN this season after being fired by the Nuggets on April 8, 2025.
“Michael was the first coach we engaged with as part of the search process because of his reputation as a selfless teacher and innovator who brings an incredible ability to connect with players and get the absolute best out of those he mentors,” Executive Associate Athletic Director Steve Newmark — who is set to become UNC’s Athletic Director on July 1 – said in a statement Tuesday.
“He is a brilliant coach who will deliver a modern and disciplined approach to leading our men’s basketball program, which is critical in the current landscape of college athletics.”
Malone was set to be introduced at a 6 p.m. ET Tuesday press conference open to the public at the Smith Center on the university’s campus in Chapel Hill.
“Carolina is one of the most historic programs in college basketball, and I am honored to be the head coach of the Tar Heels. It is humbling to follow so many legends in Chapel Hill,” Malone said in a statement Tuesday.
“I know from the many Tar Heels in the NBA how special the Carolina Basketball Family is, and I will do everything I can to continue UNC’s championship legacy while preparing our players for professional careers and life after basketball.”
The 54-year-old owns a career record of 510-394 as the head coach of the Nuggets (2015-25) and the Sacramento Kings (2013-14). He was previously an assistant with the Golden State Warriors, New Orleans Hornets, Cleveland Cavaliers and New York Knicks.
Malone was an assistant coach in the college ranks at Manhattan (1999-2001), Providence (1995-98) and Oakland (1994-95).
North Carolina parted ways with Hubert Davis after last month’s first-round loss to VCU in the NCAA Tournament.
