UConn head coach Dan Hurley has been making waves in the college basketball world since he took over the reins of the Huskies in 2018. He has led the team to multiple successful seasons, including a national championship in 2024. However, in the midst of all this success, Hurley was faced with a tempting offer from the NBA’s Los Angeles Lakers.
In 2024, the Lakers were in desperate need of a new head coach after a string of disappointing seasons. They turned their sights to Hurley, who had proven himself as a capable and dynamic coach at UConn. The offer was enticing, but Hurley ultimately made the decision to stay with the Huskies.
“I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity that the Lakers presented me with,” Hurley said in a statement. “But at this time, my focus and commitment are with the UConn program and our players. I believe we have something special here and I want to see it through.”
This decision was met with mixed reactions from fans and analysts alike. Some praised Hurley for his loyalty and dedication to the UConn program, while others questioned his potential for success in the NBA. But one thing was clear – Hurley’s heart was with the Huskies.
Fast forward to 2026 and Hurley has led UConn to another national championship. The Huskies have become a powerhouse in college basketball and Hurley’s coaching skills have been praised by many. But with all this success, the question remains – will Hurley make the move to the NBA after this season?
Rumors have been swirling that Hurley may once again consider an NBA coaching position. And with the Lakers still in need of a head coach, they may come knocking on his door once again. But this time around, the decision may not be as clear cut for Hurley.
The lure of coaching in the NBA is undeniable. It’s the highest level of basketball and a chance to compete against the best of the best. But for Hurley, it’s not just about the prestige and challenge of the NBA. It’s about finding the right fit and the right opportunity.
Hurley has proven himself as a successful college coach, but he also has experience in the NBA. He served as an assistant coach for the Philadelphia 76ers for two seasons before taking over at UConn. This experience has given him a taste of what the NBA is like, and it may just be enough to make him consider a move once again.
As for UConn, they have become a top program under Hurley’s leadership. He has brought in top recruits and developed them into star players, creating a winning culture within the team. But with the constant turnover of players in college basketball, it’s not easy to sustain this level of success. Hurley may see the NBA as a new challenge and a chance to continue his coaching legacy at the highest level.
Of course, nothing is set in stone and Hurley has not made any official statements about his future plans. But one thing is for sure – if he does decide to make the move to the NBA, he will leave behind a lasting impact on the UConn program.
In the end, the decision will ultimately come down to what Hurley believes is best for his career and his family. But one thing is certain – the UConn faithful will always be grateful for the success he has brought to their program. And if he does decide to make the move to the NBA, they will continue to support him and wish him all the best.
So as we wait to see what the future holds for Dan Hurley, one thing is clear – he has left a mark on UConn basketball that will not soon be forgotten. Whether he stays or goes, his legacy as a successful coach and leader will live on. And who knows, maybe one day we will see him back on the sidelines of the NBA, leading a team to victory once again.