Rumors were swirling earlier this month that Dan Hurley was on the brink of becoming the next head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers. However, the speculation ended when Hurley turned down the Lakers‘ offer of six years and $70 million.
LeBron James, the Lakers‘ star player, reportedly reached out to Hurley, expressing his support for the potential hire. This endorsement was significant, considering James’ possible free-agent status this summer if he opts out of his contract for the 2024/25 NBA season.
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Hurley reveals messages from LeBron
Despite James‘ backing, there was no assurance that Hurley would get to coach the four-time MVP, given the uncertainties around James‘ future with the team and this factor likely played a role in Hurley‘s decision.
“We had some text messages,” Hurley told The Herd with Colin Cowherd.
“An incredible message from him over the course of the weekend, just talking about basketball and some different things, and letting me know that if he was there in L.A., that I’d have his support.
“Just think about that, man. That blew my mind. And the exchange even went through to when I chose to go in another direction. It blew my mind to get a text message from LeBron James.”
With Hurley staying put, the Lakers are now back to the drawing board, continuing their search for a new head coach. Hurley, who boasts a 141-58 record with the Huskies, remains focused on leading his team to a potential third consecutive NCAA title in the upcoming 2024/25 season.
