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Tuesday, April 7, 2026

Kenny Smith Didn’t Like NC Poaching Outside for Coach Until He Learned This About Michael Malone

Once again, the Tar Heels have defied all expectations. But this time, it’s not on the court, but in the Athletic Department’s hiring decision. As the NCAA Tournament came to a close, the UNC men’s basketball team announced their new head coach – Michael Malone. And with his impressive NBA championship legacy, particularly coaching The Joker and leading the Denver Nuggets to the 2023 title, the Tar Heels have made a bold and exciting move.

At first, there were doubts and concerns about hiring a coach from outside the North Carolina program. After all, the Tar Heels have a rich history of promoting from within and have had great success with it. But as the news of Malone’s appointment spread, those doubts quickly turned into excitement and anticipation.

One person who was initially skeptical was former Tar Heel and NBA champion, Kenny Smith. In an interview, Smith expressed his reservations about poaching a coach from outside the program. However, his opinion changed when he learned more about Michael Malone and his coaching style.

Malone’s impressive resume speaks for itself. He has been a part of the NBA coaching scene for over two decades and has worked with some of the biggest names in the league. But what sets him apart is his ability to develop young talent and turn them into champions. This was evident in his time with the Denver Nuggets, where he transformed a young and inexperienced team into a championship-winning one.

But it’s not just his coaching abilities that make Malone the perfect fit for the Tar Heels. He also brings a fresh perspective and new ideas to the program. His experience in the NBA will bring a different level of professionalism and intensity to the team. And with his proven track record of success, he will undoubtedly elevate the Tar Heels to new heights.

Malone’s appointment also shows the Tar Heels’ commitment to staying competitive and relevant in the ever-evolving world of college basketball. In recent years, the program has faced tough competition from other top schools, and this move is a clear statement that they are not afraid to make bold decisions to stay on top.

Moreover, Malone’s hiring also sends a strong message to the players and recruits. It shows that the Tar Heels are serious about winning and are willing to bring in the best talent to achieve their goals. This will undoubtedly attract top recruits and help the program continue its legacy of producing NBA stars.

But perhaps the most exciting aspect of Malone’s appointment is the potential for him to bring his NBA connections to the college level. With his vast network and relationships in the league, he can open doors for the Tar Heels and provide opportunities for players to showcase their skills to NBA scouts.

In conclusion, the Tar Heels’ decision to hire Michael Malone as their new head coach is a game-changer. It has brought a new level of excitement and anticipation to the program, and fans can’t wait to see what he will bring to the team. With his impressive coaching abilities, fresh perspective, and NBA connections, Malone is the perfect fit for the Tar Heels. And as the team prepares for the upcoming season, one thing is for sure – the future looks bright for the Tar Heels under the leadership of Michael Malone.

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