Dan Hurley, head coach of the UConn Huskies, has been in discussions with the Los Angeles Lakers for a potential coaching position. Hurley met with the Lakers on June 7, 2024, as reported by ESPN. Speculation around his potential move has sparked concerns about its impact on UConn and college sports in general. Some commentators suggest that Hurley might consider the move to escape challenges such as the transfer portal and NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) issues in college sports. Despite the Lakers' interest, Hurley ultimately decided to remain with UConn, highlighting his commitment to the collegiate program over the NBA opportunity. This decision is seen by some as a sign of the NBA's declining allure compared to college basketball.
COLUMN: Dan Hurley going to the Lakers never really made sense. And we all got played in the process. https://t.co/XSvayrLd5U via @USATODAY
Too bad for Lakers and LeBron. Dan Hurley could’ve worked out for both. So, hello again Storrs and the Portal and NIL. Column: https://t.co/fTBDgvUt0N
Well, at least the Lakers made the Old College try with Dan Hurley. Jay Wright next? Column: https://t.co/4BPnpI4tTI https://t.co/qOloW6EEqa
Dan Hurley choosing a collegiate program over the mighty Los Angeles Lakers is proof that the NBA is dying. My column:
If it takes going to LA to get away from the Portal and NIL, Dan Hurley may do it for that as much as anything. And LeBron may go to college after all. Column: https://t.co/zx3j6FP2aS
Dan Hurley is meeting with the Lakers today, per ESPN. If he leaves, it’s not just bad for UConn. It’s a blow to college sports. Column: https://t.co/L7OKHgqzeR
Column: Hurley up! The Lakers need to hire UConn champ now. https://t.co/1jBVJtYm1J
Column: There have been many false declarations of doom over college coaches leaving the game in recent years. If Dan Hurley leaves UConn for L.A., that's different. It's a legitimate concern. https://t.co/L7OKHgq1pj