Micah Nori is one of the most well-respected assistant coaches around the league. After interviewing for the Phoenix Suns' open head coach position, many Minnesota Timberwolves fans feared they would lose Nori. However, after the Suns officially revealed their five finalists for their head coach vacancy, Nori is set to return to the Timberwolves next season. The Suns' finalists include Chris Quinn of the Miami Heat, Dave Bliss of the Oklahoma City Thunder, Sean Sweeney of the Dallas Mavericks, Johnnie Bryant, and Jordan Ott of the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Notably, the Denver Nuggets, Memphis Grizzlies, and San Antonio Spurs all previously had head coach openings. However, all three teams opted to promote their interim coach. With no other open head coaching jobs around the league, Nori seems poised to return to Minnesota as the lead assistant. While Nori is more than deserving of a head coaching opportunity, having him back next year will certainly benefit Minnesota.
Micah Nori is a valuable part of the Timberwolves' success
Nori has been an assistant coach in the NBA since 2009 and has been the Timberwolves' lead assistant since 2021. Last offseason, Nori interviewed for the Detroit Pistons, Los Angeles Lakers, and Cavs' head coach positions. Nori is well-known for building relationships with players. Star Anthony Edwards has openly praised Nori on multiple occasions, including calling him a genius. Being able to build relationships with players, especially stars, is a key part of coaching.
Moreover, Nori is known for both his creative offensive sets and emphasis on physical defense. This combination makes Nori so valuable to the Wolves. Nori rose to prominence during the 2024 playoffs. After Chris Finch went down with a knee injury in the first round, Nori took over sideline duties and helped guide the Wolves to the Western Conference Finals. He has also been an underrated part of the Timberwolves' Western Conference Finals run this season.
Of course, having a good head coach is the most notable and important aspect of NBA coaching. Nevertheless, having an experienced assistant coaching staff is also key. That's where Nori's value comes into play. Given Nori's incredible experience, ability to relate to players, and proven team success on both ends of the floor, he's destined to land a head coaching gig at some point. However, he'll have to wait a bit longer. For now, the Timberwolves and their fans should be grateful to have Nori back for at least another season.