North Carolina has officially named former Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone as its new head coach, agreeing to a six-year contract worth around $50 million, sources told ESPN.
The deal averages more than $8.3 million annually, placing Malone among the highest-paid coaches in college basketball.
That salary also compares competitively with NBA coaching deals.
While Steve Kerr leads the league at $17.5 million per year, Malone’s salary would rank among the top 10 in the NBA, ahead of JJ Redick’s reported $8 million.
“Carolina is one of the most historic programs in college basketball, and I am honored to be the head coach of the Tar Heels,” Malone said in a statement.
“I will do everything I can to continue UNC’s championship legacy while preparing our players for professional careers and life after basketball.”
The hiring signals a major investment as UNC looks to reshape its program.
Michael Malone Signs Six-Year, $50M Deal With North Carolina https://t.co/gYmtklEZmL
— RealGM (@RealGM) April 7, 2026
