By Guillaume K. | Sports journalist
The Lakers are still in the dark about the coaching position, the fault of Dan Hurley’s refusal. The UCONN coach was asked about this unique situation, and he explained the reasons for his return to the NCAA.
While the rumors mainly mentioned JJ Redick and James Borrego for the vacant position of coach of the Lakers, the two favorites of LeBron James and Anthony Davis, a rather surprising name that excited fans last week. Indeed, Dan Hurley, double reigning NCAA champion with UCONN, would have been contacted.
An exciting prospect because of his ability to work with young people, but above all because he managed to develop an attractive game with the Huskies. He could therefore have made the most of the King’s last years, while developing talents like Austin Reaves or Rui Hachimura. Unfortunately for the Purple and Gold, he ultimately decided to go for a historic 3-peat at the university level.
Dan Hurley talks about his choice to turn down the Lakers
Following this choice, many thought that he had simply used Los Angeles to obtain a salary increase with UCONN, and that he had never been serious in his desire to commit to the Lakers. He spoke directly on the subject during his appearance on journalist Dan LeBatard’s show.
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One of the stupidest things I heard was that it was a negotiation technique on my part to improve my salary and powers with UCONN. I don’t need that, I just won two March Madness titles in a row. That wasn’t the question. I had a contract offer here, and the salary part was finalized a long time ago.
There were certain components that I wanted to adjust before committing, particularly on the money distributed to players with NIL contracts. But it’s really too simple an analysis to say that I used the Lakers. It was a heartbreaking decision for me. I didn’t know what to do before the deadline, until I got into bed.
I think there is a certain amount that would have motivated me to leave my current situation. I’d be lying if I said money wasn’t a factor. But on the other hand, money was not at the heart of my negotiations with UCONN. I have a family connection here with my wife, my sons, my father… I know it means a lot to him to come see me here.
Dan Hurley hesitated for a long time before returning to UCONN. It was only a few hours before the deadline that he made his decision, after a good night’s sleep. Obviously, the Lakers’ offer was not attractive enough to fully convince him.
2024-06-13 19:50:00
#rake #Lakers #Dan #Hurley #salary #part
