The Portland Trail Blazers named former Minnesota Timberwolves assistant Micah Nori their next head coach, the team announced.
Nori will sign a one-year deal with the Trail Blazers that includes team options for each of the next two seasons, according to Jason Quick of The Athletic.
In Portland, the 53-year-old will succeed Tiago Splitter, who recently left to take the same position with the Chicago Bulls.
"After an extensive search process, it became clear that Micah embodies the qualities we are looking for in the leader of this franchise," Trail Blazers general manager Joe 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.
"We are excited about the future under his direction and look forward to what we can accomplish together."
The longtime assistant becomes the first significant hire under new owner Tom Dundon, whose $4.25-billion purchase of the Trail Blazers was officially approved by the NBA's board of governors in March.
"I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to lead the Trail Blazers and want to thank Tom, Joe, and the Rip City Rising ownership group for their trust," Nori said. "From my conversations with Tom and Joe, it was evident that there is a strong commitment to building a culture that values accountability, development, and team success. This is a team with tremendous talent, and I'm excited to begin working with our players and staff."
Nori joined the Timberwolves in 2021 as one of the first additions to Chris Finch's coaching staff, serving as his lead assistant.
He filled in for Finch in the closing minutes of Minnesota's 2024 first-round series against the Phoenix Suns after the head coach tore the patellar tendon in his right knee following a collision with veteran guard Mike Conley. The Timberwolves held on to sweep the Suns. Finch then underwent surgery and sat behind the bench for Game 1 of their next series against the Denver Nuggets, though Nori remained tasked with on-court coaching duties for the rest of their postseason run.
Before joining Minnesota, Nori spent time as an assistant with the Toronto Raptors, Sacramento Kings, Nuggets, and Detroit Pistons. He became a fan favorite with the Timberwolves for his eccentric live interviews during games.
