Jamahl Mosley, the associate head coach for the Dallas Mavericks for the previous seven seasons, has been announced as the new head coach for the Orlando Magic after signing a four-year contract.
Prior to his tenure in Dallas, Mosley spent time with the Cleveland Cavaliers and Denver Nuggets, where he learned from the renowned former head coach George Karl.
Before the hiring was officially announced, it was reported the Magic had narrowed their list down to two potential hires: Mosley, and Nuggets assistant coach Wes Unseld Jr. (considered to be one of the leading candidates for the head coach position for the Washington Wizards).
We have named Jamahl Mosley as our head coach.
— Orlando Magic (@OrlandoMagic) July 11, 2021
Welcome to Orlando, Coach Mosley!https://t.co/4zELXyakFt pic.twitter.com/SGq0Ivbb4m
The Magic are in a clear rebuilding stage with a team is full of young, developmental talent such as Jonathan Isaac (who is returning from a knee injury), Cole Anthony, Wendell Carter Jr., and Markelle Fultz. In addition, a pair of Orlando’s most experienced and veteran players (Nikola Vucevic and Evan Fournier) were traded at the deadline.
With a need to focus on player development, Mosley’s hiring is an apt decision by the Magic. Mosley is largely credited for his work in helping develop All-NBA point guard Luka Doncic.
As a former collegiate star at the University of Colorado, Mosley’s playing experience (which includes four seasons overseas) is also a benefit to the team.
As the Magic taking a clear step forward in their rebuilding process, the mood within the organization appears to be extremely confident, with Magic president of basketball operations Jeff Weltman expressing his excitement for Mosely to take the reins.
“We would like to welcome Jamahl and his family to the Magic family,” said Weltman.
“Within the NBA coaching community, Jamahl is considered a rising star. His coaching path is rooted in player development. He is a communicator and connector, and we look forward to him leading our group.”
