Blazers GM Joe Cronin: Micah Nori ’embodies the qualities’ we want

The Trail Blazers have officially announced Micah Nori as the franchise’s next head coach.

Portland revealed the hiring Tuesday, about an hour after ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that Nori had agreed to take the job.

After a lengthy search that included numerous candidates, Blazers general manager Joe Cronin said Nori ultimately separated himself from the field.

“After an extensive search process, it became clear that Micah embodies the qualities we are looking for in the leader of this franchise,” Cronin said in a statement. “He has been a key contributor to successful organizations and brings a wealth of expertise, a proven ability to develop players and an authenticity that aligns with the culture we are building.”

Nori arrives after spending the past five seasons as lead assistant under Chris Finch with the Timberwolves. During that stretch, Minnesota reached multiple postseasons and advanced to back-to-back Western Conference Finals.

Many around the league gained a closer look at Nori during Minnesota’s 2024 playoff run, when he assumed a larger role after Finch suffered a knee injury during the postseason.

Now he’ll take over a Portland team built around a promising young core.

Nori said his conversations with Cronin and the organization convinced him the opportunity was the right fit.

“From my conversations with (team owner Tom Dundon) and Joe, it was evident that there is a strong commitment to building a culture that values accountability, development and team success,” Nori said. “This is a team with tremendous talent, and I’m excited to begin working with our players and staff.”

Nori has previously coached with the Raptors, Kings, Nuggets and Pistons and has spent nearly three decades working in NBA front offices and on coaching staffs.

Looking for the latest NBA Insider News & Rumors?

Be sure to follow Hoops Wire on TWITTER and FACEBOOK for breaking NBA News and Rumors for all 30 teams!

Leave a Reply