Nuggets news: Nikola Jokic reacts to Michael Malone landing North Carolina basketball job

Nikola Jokic is sending his best wishes to his former head coach. Michael Malone starts a new chapter in his career as North Carolina announced his hiring as its next men’s basketball head coach, bringing in one of the NBA’s most experienced leaders. Malone is replacing Hubert Davis, who was dismissed following the Tar Heels’ disappointing first-round exit in this year’s NCAA Tournament.

Jokic, who spent his entire career playing under Malone in Denver, weighed in on the hiring.

“I’m happy for coach. I wish him all the luck,” said Jokic. “I think it’s a little bit different just because he was coaching NBA for how many years, 12, 15 years? He definitely has the poise and the brain to do it. I think he’s going to do a really good job, because I think he can actually coach the guys. I think he’s going to have time to coach the guys and teach them how to play the game the right way.”

Malone spent 12 seasons as an assistant in the NBA before earning his first head coaching opportunity with the Sacramento Kings in 2013. Two years later, he was hired as the Nuggets’ head coach.

What followed was the most successful tenure in Nuggets franchise history. Malone finished his time in Denver with a 510-394 record, even guiding the team to a franchise-first championship in 2023. In his final season in the Mile High City, he surpassed legendary Nuggets coach Doug Moe for total wins.

Throughout that run, Jokic emerged as one of the greatest players in the league. He would capture three MVP awards under Malone’s direction.

If the endorsement of a three-time MVP means anything, North Carolina may have found exactly the right man for the job.

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