The Pelicans have fully launched their head coaching search, with Borrego, Ollie, and Hamm emerging as top candidates.
2025-11-17 06:43

According to multiple media reports, the New Orleans Pelicans' head coaching search has fully commenced. Although it is still in the early stages, several names have already been linked to the Pelicans.
After the Pelicans finished last in the Western Conference with a 2-10 record, they finally decided to dismiss Willie Green as head coach. Pelicans Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations Joe Dumars subsequently appointed Green's assistant coach, James Borrego, as interim head coach, with Borrego expected to remain in charge for the remainder of the season.
The 48-year-old Borrego previously served as an assistant coach for the San Antonio Spurs, New Orleans Hornets, and Orlando Magic before being appointed head coach of the Charlotte Hornets in May 2018. He coached the Hornets for four years, leading the team to a record of 138 wins and 163 losses.
It's worth mentioning that Borrego has also taken over Zion Williamson's player development program this season. Reports indicate that Williamson has responded well to Borrego's guidance and holds him in high regard.
According to a previous report by SNY reporter Ian Begley, the Pelicans are considering making Borrego their permanent coach. At the same time, they are also considering former University of Connecticut and Brooklyn Nets interim coach Kevin Ollie, who has long been appreciated and admired by Dumars's chief assistant, Troy Weaver.
NBA veteran reporter Marc Stein added that Milwaukee Bucks assistant coach Davin Hamm is also a candidate to watch in the Pelicans' head coaching search. The 52-year-old coached the Los Angeles Lakers from 2022 to 2024, leading them to a 99-86 record and winning the NBA championship in 2023.
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