New Orleans Pelicans coach Willie Green was dismissed on November 15 after a 2–10 start to the 2025-26 season, with internal sources citing concerns over accountability for star forward Zion Williamson, according to NBA insider Michael Scotto.
Green’s communication with players reportedly grew stale, and some felt he did not challenge Williamson sufficiently, league sources told HoopsHype.
Scotto reported that guard Jordan Poole expressed frustration after being removed from the starting lineup against the Denver Nuggets on October 29. Forward Trey Murphy III, who had played under Green for his entire Pelicans tenure, also reportedly received repetitive messaging that limited his growth. Sources indicated that these issues contributed to dissatisfaction within the organization.
James Borrego currently serves as interim head coach while the Pelicans evaluate candidates to replace Green. Under Borrego, Williamson’s player development program has reportedly improved, with sources saying the forward respects the interim coach and has responded well to his guidance.
The franchise is exploring high-profile options for a permanent hire. Bucks assistant Darvin Ham, noted for his success with Milwaukee’s 2021 championship team, and former UConn and Nets interim coach Kevin Ollie are among the candidates under consideration, according to Marc Stein and Ian Begley.
Pelicans Senior Vice President of Basketball Operations Troy Weaver reportedly remains a strong supporter of Ollie, stemming from his interest in hiring the former coach during his time with the Detroit Pistons.
The Pelicans’ 2–11 start has been defined by inconsistency from key contributors, including Williamson and Murphy III. New Orleans has struggled both at home and on the road, with identical records of 1–5 at Smoothie King Center and 1–6 in away games. The lack of stability has amplified calls within the organization for a coaching change that ensures greater accountability among star players.
Ham brings extensive NBA experience on both ends of the floor. He began coaching in 2008 with the Thunderbirds, later joining the Los Angeles Lakers’ staff to develop players like Kobe Bryant, Pau Gasol, and Dwight Howard.
From 2013 to 2018, he was part of the Atlanta Hawks’ staff, contributing to four consecutive playoff appearances and the 2015 Eastern Conference Finals while aiding the development of All-Stars Dennis Schroder and Taurean Prince.
In 2018, Ham joined the Bucks alongside head coach Mike Budenholzer, playing a pivotal role in Milwaukee’s best regular-season record since 1972 and their 2021 NBA championship. He later became the head coach of the Lakers in 2022, leading the team to the 2023 Western Conference Finals as a seventh seed and capturing the inaugural NBA In-Season Tournament that December. Ham returned to Milwaukee in June 2024 as top assistant under Doc Rivers.
