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[Saba Sports News] After turning down the Los Angeles Lakers this offseason, UConn head coach Dan Hurley spoke about the possibility of making the jump to the NBA.
In an interview, Hurley explained his decision to stay in college coaching, emphasizing the impact he can have on young players’ lives—something he feels the NBA doesn’t offer in the same way.
“I love being part of this transformation in a young man’s life, which you can’t really do as an NBA coach,” Hurley said, via Sports Illustrated.
When asked if he still wanted to coach in the NBA someday, Hurley responded, “I don’t know. If you’re not going to take the Lakers job, then what job are you going to take?”
Hurley, 51, came close to accepting the Lakers’ offer but ultimately chose to return to UConn for his seventh season, aiming for a third consecutive NCAA title. His decision may signal a deeper contentment with staying in college, though his new contract with UConn could influence future NBA prospects.