James was refused, The UConn coach turned the offer anyway.
Dan Hurley was close to becoming the next head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers earlier this month. However, the speculation ended when Hurley turned down a six-year, $70 million offer from the Lakers.
LeBron James, the Lakers’ star player, reportedly reached out to Hurley to express his support for the potential hire. This endorsement was significant, especially with James’ potential free-agent status this summer if he opts out of his contract for the 2024/25 NBA season.
Hurley reveals messages from LeBron
Despite James’ backing, there was no guarantee that Hurley would have the opportunity to coach the four-time MVP, given the uncertainties surrounding James’ future with the team. This factor likely influenced Hurley’s decision.
“We had some text messages,” Hurley shared on The Herd with Colin Cowherd. “An incredible message from him over the weekend, just talking about basketball and some different things, and letting me know that if he was there in L.A., that I’d have his support.
Just think about that, man. That blew my mind. And the exchange even went through to when I chose to go in another direction. It blew my mind to get a text message from LeBron James.”
With Hurley opting to stay, the Lakers are now back to searching for a new head coach. Hurley, who has a 141-58 record with the Huskies, remains focused on leading his team to a potential third consecutive NCAA title in the upcoming 2024/25 season.
