UConn coach Dan Hurley has solidified his commitment to the University of Connecticut by signing a new contract that will keep him in Storrs through the 2029-30 season. This extension, valued at $50 million over six years, showcases the confidence the university has in Hurley’s leadership and coaching abilities. Despite turning down a lucrative offer from the Los Angeles Lakers, Hurley remains dedicated to building a championship program at UConn and developing young men both on and off the court.
Earlier in the offseason, Dan Hurley rejected a six-year, $70 million offer to become the head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers. Despite being the franchise’s top target, Hurley chose to decline the opportunity and continue his successful tenure at UConn. Instead, the Lakers hired JJ Redick as their new coach. This decision demonstrates Hurley’s commitment to the university and his desire to continue pursuing championships with the Huskies.
Since joining UConn in 2018, Dan Hurley has amassed an impressive record of 141-58. Under his leadership, the program has achieved back-to-back national championships in 2023 and 2024. The Huskies’ performance over the past two seasons, with a record of 68-11, represents the best two-year stretch in the program’s history. Furthermore, UConn has dominated the postseason, winning all 12 NCAA tournament games by double digits.
UConn president Radenka Maric praised Hurley as “the best men’s basketball coach in the nation” and expressed gratitude for his mentorship of student-athletes both on and off the court. Athletic director David Benedict commended Hurley and his wife, Andrea, for their dedication to rebuilding the program and achieving the recent national championships. The new contract serves as recognition of the hard work and commitment required to sustain UConn’s championship culture.
Despite losing four players to the NBA draft, UConn is poised to start the upcoming season in the top five rankings. With key returnees like Alex Karaban and top recruit Liam McNeeley joining the team, the Huskies are once again expected to compete for conference and national titles. The potential for a three-peat championship is within reach, as no team has accomplished this feat since the NCAA tournament expanded to 64 teams in 1985.
Looking back at past champions, the NCAA tournament has seen few teams successfully defend their titles for a third consecutive year. Teams like Florida and Duke, who won back-to-back championships, faltered in their quest for a three-peat. UCLA stands as the only team to achieve this remarkable feat, with seven straight titles under the legendary coach John Wooden from 1967 to 1973.
Dan Hurley’s decision to extend his contract with UConn highlights his dedication to the university and his commitment to achieving sustained success. With a proven track record of championship victories and a roster of talented players, Hurley and the Huskies are poised to continue their winning ways in the seasons to come.
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