HURLEY WOULD OWE UCONN $1.9M FOR LAKERS JUMP, $7.5M FOR COLLEGE MOVE

Dan Hurley would owe UConn $1.875 million if he leaves to coach the Los Angeles Lakers, who are reportedly interested in hiring the Naismith College Coach of the Year. However, taking another NCAA coaching job would cost Hurley—or his new employer—significantly more.

Last year, Hurley signed a six-year, $32.1 million employment contract that runs through March 2029. The deal, a copy of which was obtained by Sportico via records request, includes two distinct payment structures for early departure: one for NBA jobs and another for other Division 1 college jobs. Compared to the $1.875 million owed if he joins an NBA team, Hurley would owe UConn $7.5 million if he left the school tomorrow for another NCAA position.

Including buyout clauses in coaches’ contracts is a common practice for schools to protect themselves from losing in-demand coaches who enhance their profiles and may be tempted by other opportunities. Hurley has coached the Huskies for the past six years, leading UConn to four NCAA tournaments and securing back-to-back national championships in 2023 and 2024.