Why Kenny Smith full throatedly endorses North Carolina head coach Michael Malone

North Carolina basketball is embarking on a new era with Michael Malone as the head coach. This follows the firing of Hubert Davis after the Tar Heels fell short to VCU in the first round of the NCAA Tournament.

Meanwhile, former Tar Heel now NBA analyst Kenny Smith is throwing his support behind Malone’s selection as head coach, per TNT Sports. Essentially, making the case that Malone brings a vast array of experience not seen in college basketball.

“He has a resume that no one else in college basketball has,” Smith said.

"He has a resume that no one else in college basketball has."@TheJetOnTNT gives his thoughts on reports of Michael Malone becoming the next head coach at North Carolina. pic.twitter.com/SqgNzv5dvc

— TNT Sports U.S. (@TNTSportsUS) April 6, 2026

Before joining North Carolina, Malone was the head coach of the Denver Nuggets from 2015 to 2025. During that time, Malone led the Nuggets to the NBA Finals in 2023. Along the way, Malone became the winningest coach in franchise history. They defeated the Miami Heat in five games.

Twice, Malone was an NBA All-Star coach in 2019 and 2023. Altogether, Malone compiled a 44-36 playoff record with the Nuggets and made six playoff appearances.

In April 2025, Malone was fired by the Nuggets after a four-game losing streak. Before then, Malone had coaching stints with the Sacramento Kings from 2013 to 2014. He was also an assistant coach with the New York Knicks, Cleveland Cavaliers, Golden State Warriors, and the then New Orleans Hornets.

At the collegiate level, Malone served as an assistant at Oakland University, Providence College, and Manhattan College. As a coach, Malone became known for effective player development and improving defense.

This past year, North Carolina finished with a 24-9 record and a 12-6 mark in the ACC.

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