Mavericks beat Warriors for coveted coach in Dusty May's biggest staff addition yet

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The Dallas Mavericks have carried out a sweeping organizational overhaul following a disappointing season. One of the franchise's biggest offseason moves came with the hiring of former Michigan head coach Dusty May. As May prepares for his first opportunity as an NBA head coach, the Mavericks have made it a priority to surround him with an experienced coaching staff to help facilitate the transition from college basketball.

According to NBA insider Marc Stein, former New Orleans Pelicans head coach Willie Green is expected to join Dallas as the lead assistant on May's inaugural NBA coaching staff.

“The Mavericks, I’m told, are expected to secure former Pelicans coach Willie Green as a top assistant for Dusty May’s first NBA coaching staff. The Warriors hoped to bring him back for a second stint on Steve Kerr’s staff but May’s jump to the NBA gave Green two strong options,” Stein wrote.

Green became available after the Pelicans dismissed him following a difficult 2-10 start to the 2025-26 season. He spent more than four years as New Orleans' head coach and left them compiling a 150-190 regular-season record while guiding the franchise to one playoff appearance.

Landing Green is viewed as a significant addition for the Mavericks. Pairing the veteran coach with May is a calculated decision by the front office, as May transitions directly from the college ranks without prior NBA coaching experience.

In many ways, Green can provide May with a trusted advisor who has already led an NBA team. Green's familiarity with the league's demanding 82-game schedule, in-game adjustments, and locker room leadership gives Dallas an experienced voice alongside its rookie head coach.