Inside the UNC basketball coaching search that led to Michael Malone
Michael Malone initially turned down the opportunity to be UNC's men's basketball coach. Here's a breakdown of the process and what led Malone to Chapel Hill.
CHAPEL HILL — UNC basketball coach Michael Malone told the Tar Heels “no” before he was convinced to be the first hire outside of the “Carolina family” in 70-plus years. “It wasn’t an easy decision, but what I kept thinking about was: I have a chance to be a part of something special,” Malone said during his introductory press conference on Tuesday, April 7, inside the Smith Center. “The history and tradition, to be a part of something bigger than myself.
This is the only college job I’d ever consider. Any other job, I wouldn’t even answer the phone. ” MALONE CONTRACT: Michael Malone contract, salary with UNC basketball MALONE'S TO-DO LIST: Michael Malone's to-do list with UNC basketball as Tar Heels new coach GET TO KNOW MALONE: Michael Malone discussed UNC basketball, coaching philosophy on Tar Heels podcast But he did answer the phone when Steve Newmark, who will become UNC’s director of athletics on July 1, called after the Tar Heels decided to fire Hubert Davis on March 24.
A two-week search ended where it began: with Malone. “If you wanna know something about Steve Newmark, persistence defined that guy. Would not take no for an answer,” Malone said.
“I made a decision, I felt good about it and Steve said, ‘Can we fly to your house on Easter Sunday. ’ And we spent five hours together, along with (director of basketball operations) Eric Hoots. Had a great meeting.
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