UConn head coach Dan Hurley gets brutally honest on decision to turn down Lakers, stay in Storrs

Hurley extensively discussed the most peculiar and outrageous week of the Huskies’ offseason.

After addressing the media during the Huskies’ practice on Thursday, UConn head coach Dan Hurley neatly wrapped up a tumultuous week and a half.

Hurley, who declined a lucrative six-year, $70 million offer to lead the Los Angeles Lakers, reaffirmed his commitment to UConn and expressed his determination to pursue a third consecutive championship. He appeared relieved to have finalized his decision and redirected his full attention back to basketball.

“My mind was constantly in motion. It was a whirlwind the entire time,” Hurley reflected on the decision-making process.

“Think about the two places in your mind to have to choose between. The head coach of the back-to-back defending champs at UConn or the LA Lakers. There’s not many coaches that have had to make a decision between those two options for your career. There are so many things that go through your mind.”

Hurley’s potential future as an NBA coach is a strong possibility, perhaps sooner rather than later. However, despite the allure of coaching at the pinnacle of the game, an opportunity he has described as “a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” it was not compelling enough at this moment.

Even though coaching a legendary player like LeBron James for a prestigious franchise like the Lakers was an enticing prospect, Hurley’s passion lies in the enduring relationships he forms with current and former players during pivotal stages in their lives.

While acknowledging the appeal of coaching LeBron, Hurley emphasized the profound impact he can make on young players aged 18-20, helping shape their lives and competing for significant achievements. The satisfaction of influencing players like Jordan Hawkins and Donovan Clingan and their families is a driving force for Hurley, providing both elite sports competition and personal fulfillment.

One such player deeply influenced by Hurley is Alex Karaban, a key contributor to both of the recent championship-winning Huskies teams. Karaban recently faced a similar decision but opted to return to UConn for a shot at a historic three-peat. His joy was palpable when he learned that his head coach would remain at UConn, showcasing his commitment and excitement for the upcoming season.

“I was overjoyed… extremely thrilled for him to have this opportunity. He has had a profound impact on my life, as well as on the lives of thousands of other players,” Karaban expressed. “Whether he decided to leave or stay, I was genuinely happy because I have a deep affection for him. However, when he confirmed his return, I was absolutely ecstatic.”

“Declining the Lakers job truly reflects his character and his deep attachment to UConn,” Karaban added.

Hurley indeed spoke to Karaban over the phone on Sunday regarding his choice, but it was during a team meeting before Monday’s practice that Karaban, along with the rest of the team, learned of Hurley’s decision to stay.

Now that both Hurley and Karaban are back in the fold, the Huskies’ pursuit of a third consecutive championship is challenging yet within reach. With distractions around the program diminishing, the team can fully focus on training with the goal of securing their seventh title and aiming to achieve a rare three-peat, a feat last accomplished by John Wooden’s illustrious UCLA squads.

“I didn’t coach well last week. Monday’s practice was subpar. I was preoccupied, but today I was focused,” Hurley admitted. “The new players now have a better understanding of what it means to play here… there’s a sense of relief, a feeling of lightness. Today felt like the first genuinely normal day.”