The Portland Trail Blazers have hired Minnesota Timberwolves assistant Micah Nori as their new head coach. The team announced the move Tuesday after an extensive search. Nori replaces Tiago Splitter on a unique one-year guaranteed contract.
General manager Joe Cronin praised Nori in a statement, saying he embodies the qualities the franchise seeks in a leader. Cronin highlighted Nori's experience with successful organizations, his player development skills, and his authenticity that aligns with the team's culture.
Nori will coach the Blazers through the 2026-27 season. The deal includes two team options for the following two years. New owner Tom Dundon did not retain Splitter, who led the team to its first playoff appearance since the 2020-21 season before joining the Chicago Bulls.
Nori began his NBA coaching career with the Raptors in 2009. He later worked with teams in Sacramento, Denver, and Detroit before spending five years as lead assistant in Minnesota. The Blazers aim to build on their recent first-round playoff exit against the San Antonio Spurs.
