(AP Photo/Steven Senne, File)
In a surprising turn of events, Dan Hurley Rejects Los Angeles Lakers’ Offer to continue as the head coach of the University of Connecticut’s men’s basketball team, choosing to commit to UConn even though the job is very attractive.
The Offer
Dan Hurley rejects Lakers’ offer of a six-year, $70 million contract, according to reports. Consequently, this would have made him one of the NBA’s six highest-paid coaches. The offer came after the Lakers parted ways with their previous coach, Darvin Ham, following a disappointing season where they were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs.
The Decision
Even though coaching a famous and high-profile North American sports team was tempting, Hurley decided to stay in college basketball. He confirmed his decision in a statement, expressing his pride in the championship culture built at UConn.
“I am humbled by this entire experience,” Hurley said. “At the end of the day, I am extremely proud of the championship culture we have built at Connecticut. We met as a team before today’s workout and our focus right now is on getting better this summer and connecting as a team as we continue to pursue championships.”
The Reaction
UConn athletic director David Benedict expressed his delight at Hurley’s decision to continue leading the Huskies. “He has helped return our men’s basketball program back to the pinnacle of the sport, including back-to-back NCAA Championships, and we’re grateful for his loyalty to UConn,” he said in a statement.
The Legacy
Hurley, who has led the Huskies to back-to-back national titles, has won 292 games as a coach at Wagner, Rhode Island, and UConn. Moreover, his remarkable run of recent championships has firmly established him as one of the biggest names in the history of amateur basketball.
The Future
With Hurley in charge, UConn will now aim for a third consecutive NCAA championship. Meanwhile, the Lakers will have to resume their search for a new head coach, as they look to bounce back from a disappointing season.
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