Kim English Backs Out of UNC Assistant Role as Michael Malone’s Staff Plans Shift

The North Carolina Tar Heels experienced an unexpected setback in its coaching transition under new head coach Michael Malone, as a key assistant hire ultimately chose not to proceed with the program. The development comes during a critical period of roster and staff construction for the upcoming season.

Former Providence head coach Kim English had been expected to join Malone’s first staff in Chapel Hill, but reversed his decision just days after initially being linked to the position. The change leaves a notable gap in UNC’s early coaching structure.

The move was confirmed through reporting by ESPN college basketball insider Pete Thamel, who noted that English informed the university of his decision to withdraw from consideration. His departure reshapes the early expectations for Malone’s staff composition.

English’s reversal comes as UNC continues to navigate a broader rebuild that includes both coaching hires and roster retention decisions ahead of the 2026 season.

1. Sudden Reversal Alters Early Coaching Plans

English’s decision marks a sharp change from earlier expectations, as he had been widely viewed as a strong candidate to join Malone’s staff. His experience as a former head coach at both Providence and George Mason made him a valuable addition on paper. The initial plan positioned English as part of a staff built around veteran leadership and collegiate coaching experience, complementing Malone’s transition from the professional ranks into college basketball. However, just days after reports of his expected hiring, English opted to step away from the opportunity, halting what had appeared to be a finalized agreement. His withdrawal forces North Carolina to reassess how it will structure its assistant coaching group moving forward.

2. Malone’s Staff Still Taking Shape

With English no longer in the picture, Malone’s coaching staff now features limited experience in the college basketball landscape. One of the remaining assistants with direct CBB background is Chuck Martin, who joined from the staff at Arkansas Razorbacks under John Calipari. Martin’s presence provides continuity in college-level coaching knowledge, but UNC still lacks a fully rounded assistant group as Malone continues to finalize his bench. English’s departure means the program must now explore additional candidates, potentially drawing from both collegiate and professional coaching ranks to fill the vacancy. The timing places added pressure on the Tar Heels as they attempt to finalize staff roles while also preparing for roster-building decisions.

3. UNC Continues Broader Program Rebuild

Despite the setback, Malone has already made some progress in stabilizing parts of the program’s foundation. One notable move was retaining forward Jarin Stevenson, who opted not to enter the transfer portal. That decision helps maintain continuity on the roster while other areas of the program remain in flux. Retaining key players is seen as an important step in establishing stability during a transitional offseason. Still, UNC faces multiple unresolved priorities, including finalizing its coaching staff and addressing roster depth ahead of the new season. The program remains in active rebuild mode under Malone’s leadership. As the offseason continues, North Carolina’s ability to quickly replace missed targets like English will play a significant role in shaping expectations for its 2026 campaign.