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UNC Hires Michael Malone as New Basketball Coach
Longtime NBA assistant takes over Tar Heels program
Apr. 12, 2026 at 1:43pm
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The hiring of Michael Malone as UNC's new basketball coach signals a fresh start for the storied program.Chapel Hill TodayThe University of North Carolina has named Michael Malone as its new men's basketball head coach, replacing the recently retired Roy Williams. Malone, a longtime NBA assistant coach, brings a wealth of professional experience to the storied college program.
Why it matters
UNC is one of the most prestigious college basketball programs in the country, with a rich history of success. The hiring of Malone, who has never been a head coach at the college level, is seen as a bold move to reinvigorate the Tar Heels and return them to national prominence after a few down seasons.
The details
Malone, 54, has spent the past 15 years as an assistant coach in the NBA with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Denver Nuggets, and Sacramento Kings. He is known as a strong tactician and player developer, helping guide teams to the playoffs on multiple occasions. UNC officials were impressed by Malone's ability to connect with players and his innovative approach to the game.
- Malone was hired as the new UNC head coach on April 10, 2026.
- He replaces Roy Williams, who retired after the 2025-26 season.
The players
Michael Malone
The new head coach of the University of North Carolina men's basketball team, bringing over 15 years of NBA assistant coaching experience to the storied college program.
Roy Williams
The recently retired head coach of the University of North Carolina men's basketball team, who led the Tar Heels to three national championships during his 18-year tenure.
What they’re saying
“Michael Malone is the perfect fit to lead our basketball program back to national prominence. His experience, work ethic, and player development skills make him an ideal choice to continue our winning tradition.”
— Bubba Cunningham, UNC Athletic Director
“I'm thrilled to have the opportunity to coach at one of the most storied programs in college basketball history. UNC has always been a dream job of mine, and I can't wait to get started working with our student-athletes.”
— Michael Malone
What’s next
Malone will be formally introduced as the new UNC head coach at a press conference on April 15, 2026.
The takeaway
The hiring of Michael Malone as the new UNC basketball coach represents a bold move to reinvigorate the program and return it to national prominence. Malone's extensive NBA experience and reputation for player development could be exactly what the Tar Heels need to reclaim their spot among the elite college basketball programs.
