Arizona Coach Tommy Lloyd Focuses on Final Four Amid North Carolina Job Rumors

Arizona's coach Tommy Lloyd is preparing for the Final Four, not thinking about other jobs. He says he is not a multitasker and is focused on winning.
By Newsroom | Sports, Basketball |

Tommy Lloyd, head coach of the Arizona men's basketball team, has repeatedly stated he is not a "multitasker," asserting a singular focus on his current team's pursuit of a championship. These declarations come as rumors persist, linking him to the vacant coaching position at the University of North Carolina. Lloyd’s team is currently preparing to face Michigan in the Final Four.

Not a multitasker: Lloyd focused on Zona, not UNC - 1

Lloyd's consistent refrain, "I'm kind of just one thing at a time," and "Not a multitasker," serves as his primary defense against inquiries about his future. He suggests that external parties, such as media, are the ones creating or perceiving "distractions." Lloyd has also reportedly instructed his Arizona players to concentrate solely on their upcoming Final Four game against Michigan.

Not a multitasker: Lloyd focused on Zona, not UNC - 2

LLOYD'S RESPONSE AND TIMING

Lloyd’s comments, made during press conferences leading up to the Final Four, have done little to quell the ongoing speculation. He reiterated his focus on the immediate task at hand when asked directly about the North Carolina opening. Reports indicate that the University of North Carolina is expected to act swiftly in its coaching search once the college basketball season concludes.

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THE NORTH CAROLINA OPENING

The North Carolina job has become a subject of significant attention, with rumors also mentioning other prominent figures. Billy Donovan, the current head coach of the Chicago Bulls, and Dusty May of Michigan are reportedly among the top candidates alongside Lloyd. The timing of the Transfer Portal opening, shortly after the NCAA Championship game, adds another layer of complexity to coaching changes in the sport.

BACKGROUND: LLOYD'S ASCENSION

Lloyd has experienced a rapid rise in college basketball coaching. He reached the Final Four in only his fifth season leading the Arizona Wildcats. This success follows a lengthy tenure as the top assistant under Mark Few at Gonzaga University. Arizona, along with Michigan, are currently ranked highly by KenPom, solidifying their status as top teams this season. The Wildcats boast a deep roster featuring Jaden Bradley, the Big 12 Player of the Year, and highly touted freshmen Koa Peat and Brayden Burries.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Arizona coach Tommy Lloyd saying about job rumors?
Tommy Lloyd says he is not a multitasker and is focused only on his team's Final Four game. He believes media are creating distractions.
Q: What job are people linking Tommy Lloyd to?
People are linking Tommy Lloyd to the open head coach job at the University of North Carolina.
Q: Who else is being considered for the North Carolina job?
Other names mentioned for the North Carolina job include Billy Donovan of the Chicago Bulls and Dusty May of Michigan.
Q: When will North Carolina likely make a decision?
The University of North Carolina is expected to decide on a new coach after the college basketball season ends.
Q: How is Tommy Lloyd's team doing this season?
Tommy Lloyd has led the Arizona Wildcats to the Final Four in his fifth season. The team is highly ranked and features strong players like Jaden Bradley.