The Mavericks are still looking for a head coach, and according to Marc Stein of The Stein Line, one name Dallas hoped might emerge as a serious candidate appears likely to stay put.
Stein reported that the Mavericks wanted to give Duke coach Jon Scheyer “every conceivable opportunity” to consider a jump to the NBA before moving forward with their search.
The interest is understandable. Scheyer coached Cooper Flagg during the star forward’s lone season at Duke before Flagg was selected No. 1 overall by Dallas in last year’s draft. Because of that relationship, Scheyer has been linked to the Mavericks’ vacancy for weeks.
Still, Stein noted there has been “persistent pessimism” around the league that Scheyer would leave Duke. He added that Michigan coach Dusty May is also expected to remain at the college level for the 2026-27 season.
That leaves Dallas continuing to evaluate a list of candidates that reportedly includes Timberwolves assistant Micah Nori, Rockets assistant Royal Ivey, Raptors assistant Jama Mahlalela and former NBA head coach Terry Stotts.
Nori, in particular, has emerged as a prominent name in coaching circles. Stein recently reported that he is considered a leading candidate for both the Mavericks and Trail Blazers openings.
The Mavericks parted ways with Jason Kidd a month ago and have yet to name a replacement with the NBA Draft now just days away.
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