"They're dumber than NBA players": UConn HC Dan Hurley gives a lengthy account of why he let go of "once-in-a-lifetime" opportunity
The week after Dan Hurley met with the LA Lakers' representatives to discuss his $70 million coaching offer, he gave the power of decision to his UConn Huskies roster. The fate of his ultimate coaching dream, which could land him in control of one of the biggest NBA franchises, was in the hands of a few teenagers.
Well, not exactly; it was what Hurley wanted them to think. He had already translated his decision to stay in UConn's athletics department and was simply using his players' unawareness to gain a solid commitment out of them.
"That's why I like coaching guys this age. They're dumber than NBA players. I wouldn't have been able to pull that stuff off [in the league]. But I got a great commitment from the group and I told them," Hurley said in an interview with FOX Sports.
Dan Hurley’s rejection of the "once-in-a-lifetime" opportunity was a simple connection with his wife, Andrea Hurley. During the weekend of his Lakers’ visit, the couple decided to text each other with either “go” (with the Lakers) or “stay" at the count of three.
Dan and Andrea Hurley’s answers matched on Sunday night, again on the next morning and in the afternoon, moments before Hurley would publicize his decision.
Dan Hurley slated to lose $3.4 million each year with UConn
Hurley and UConn solidified the rumored extension last week, retaining the coach until the end of the 2029 collegiate season. The new deal is worth $50 million and will span over six years, $20 million less than what the Lakers offered him ($3.4 million per year).
Dan Hurley made his decision due to his love for college basketball and for a shot at pursuing a three-peat and making history, which could make him the most successful coach in modern-day college basketball.
Nevertheless, Hurley will have multiple opportunities to earn more in the coming years. His latest contract offers him a retention bonus of $1 million each year. There are also increasing additional compensations of around $6 million for consulting, speaking and other media obligations.
Moreover, there are performance-based incentives that could see an additional $50,000 (winning conference season and tournament), $25,000 (NCAA bid), $50,000 (Round of 32), $75,000 (Sweet 16), $125,000 (Elite Eight), $200,000 (Final Four), $300,000 (Championship game) and $500,000 for winning the NCAA title.