Borrego Makes Case to Be Pelicans' Permanent Head Coach

The interim coach wants to stay in New Orleans long-term after taking over midseason.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 2:37pm

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An abstract, expressionist painting featuring bold, neon-colored brushstrokes that capture the intense energy and emotion of an NBA head coach on the sidelines, their face and body dissolving into a vibrant, chaotic display of color and movement.The Pelicans' coaching search has ignited a passionate debate about the team's future direction, with interim head coach James Borrego making a strong case to stay at the helm.New Orleans Today

James Borrego, who took over as the New Orleans Pelicans' head coach in November, has made his case to become the permanent head coach. Borrego expressed his love for the city and the franchise, saying it's an 'honor' to be the Pelicans' head coach. However, the Pelicans are also reportedly considering other candidates, including Kevin Ollie, Darvin Ham, and Jamahl Mosley.

Why it matters

The Pelicans are looking to hire a head coach who can help them build a sustainable winner after another disappointing season. Borrego has done a decent job as the interim coach, but the team's lack of transparency about their coaching search makes it unclear if he will be retained.

The details

Borrego took over as the Pelicans' head coach in November, replacing Willie Green. In his end-of-season press conference, Borrego expressed his desire to stay in New Orleans long-term, saying he loves the city, the community, and the franchise. He believes in the team and the players, and feels a real connection to the organization. However, the Pelicans have not yet had any talks with Borrego about the future, and it remains to be seen where the team's front office stands on his candidacy.

  • Borrego took over as the Pelicans' head coach in November 2025.
  • Borrego made his case to be the permanent head coach during his end-of-season press conference in April 2026.

The players

James Borrego

The interim head coach of the New Orleans Pelicans, who took over the team in November 2025 and is now making his case to become the permanent head coach.

Willie Green

The former head coach of the New Orleans Pelicans, who was replaced by James Borrego in November 2025.

Joe Dumars

The executive vice president of basketball operations for the New Orleans Pelicans, who is leading the team's head coach search.

Troy Weaver

The general manager of the New Orleans Pelicans, who is also involved in the team's head coach search.

Kevin Ollie

A candidate for the New Orleans Pelicans' head coaching job.

Darvin Ham

A candidate for the New Orleans Pelicans' head coaching job.

Jamahl Mosley

A candidate for the New Orleans Pelicans' head coaching job.

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What they’re saying

“It's an honor to be the Head Coach of the New Orleans Pelicans... I'm one of 30 in the NBA. I have great pride in that... I love this city, this community, this franchise. Now it's about building into the future”

— James Borrego, Interim Head Coach, New Orleans Pelicans

What’s next

The Pelicans' front office will continue their head coach search and decide whether to retain Borrego as the permanent head coach or hire a different candidate.

The takeaway

Borrego has made a strong case to remain the Pelicans' head coach, but the team's lack of transparency about their coaching search makes it unclear if he will be retained. The Pelicans are looking for a head coach who can help them build a sustainable winner, and Borrego's performance as the interim coach may not be enough to secure the permanent job.