The New Orleans Pelicans are weighing options to replace Willie Green, who was dismissed on November 15 after a 2-10 start to the 2025-26 season. James Borrego currently serves as the interim head coach while the franchise evaluates candidates to lead the rebuilding squad.
NBA insider Marc Stein reported that Bucks assistant Darvin Ham is “a name to watch” in New Orleans’ search, joining former UConn and Nets interim coach Kevin Ollie among potential hires, according to Ian Begley. Ham’s NBA pedigree positions him as a compelling option for a team struggling early in the season.
The Pelicans’ 2–11 start has been marked by inconsistency from key players, including Zion Williamson and Trey Murphy III, who have provided bright spots amid the losses. The team has won just two games this season, with home and road performances nearly identical: 1–5 at Smoothie King Center and 1–6 away.
Ham brings a wealth of experience on both ends of the court. He began his coaching career in 2008, including stints with the Thunderbirds and Los Angeles Lakers, where he focused on player development with Kobe Bryant, Pau Gasol, and Dwight Howard.
From 2013 to 2018, Ham was with the Atlanta Hawks, helping the team reach the playoffs four consecutive seasons and the 2015 Eastern Conference Finals. He also contributed to developing All-Stars such as Dennis Schroder and Taurean Prince.
Ham joined the Milwaukee Bucks in 2018 alongside Mike Budenholzer, playing a key role in the 2021 NBA championship.
In 2022, Ham became head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers, guiding the team to two playoff appearances. He led the Lakers to the 2023 Western Conference Finals as a 7-seed and captured the inaugural NBA In-Season Tournament that December. Ham was dismissed in May 2024 after consecutive postseason exits, including a first-round loss in 2024.
Ham returned to the Bucks as top assistant under Doc Rivers in June 2024.
