Not even Magic Johnson himself could compel UConn head coach Dan Hurley to make the coast-to-coast trip and become the head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers. He’s staying with the two-time defending national champions.
According to ESPN NBA insider Adrian Wojnarowski, Hurley has turned down a very lucrative offer from the Lakers to remain as the head coach of the Huskies. Per the report, the Lakers offer was for six years and worth $70 million, which would have made him one of the highest-paid coaches in the league.
“BREAKING: Connecticut’s Dan Hurley has turned down the Los Angeles Lakers’ six-year, $70 million offer and will return to chase a third straight national title, sources tell ESPN. LA would’ve made him one of NBA’s six highest paid coaches,” Woj wrote.
Basketball fans everywhere are celebrating this decision as a big win for the Huskies and laughing at the Lakers for failing to get their top target:
“Lets F’ing goooooooo!!! …Dan Hurley, the best basketball coach in the world is staying at the basketball capitol of the world!!! #UConn,” one user wrote.
“Duke, North Carolina, Kentucky and UConn head coaches have all reportedly turned down the Lakers job in the last 20 years. Blueblood status confirmed! But remember… college basketball is dying!” wrote another.
“First time in NBA history a coach has rejected an in-season tournament winner,” a third user joked.