The New Orleans Pelicans included former NBA All-Star Rajon Rondo in their list of head coaching candidates on Sunday, April 26, 2026, as the franchise seeks a replacement for former coach Willie Green. Insiders Marc Stein and Jake Fischer reported that the team is exploring non-traditional hires following the recent success of JJ Redick with the Los Angeles Lakers.
Rondo, a two-time NBA champion, has no formal head coaching experience but recently served as a guest coach for the Milwaukee Bucks during their 2024–25 training camp. The Pelicans are currently one of only two NBA franchises, alongside the Chicago Bulls, still searching for a new head coach after the Bucks hired Taylor Jenkins on Thursday.
James Borrego, who took over interim duties after Green’s departure, remains a primary candidate for the permanent position. However, general manager Troy Weaver is reportedly examining a broad spectrum of prospects to lead the roster into the next season.
According to reports from Marc Stein and Jake Fischer, the team is also monitoring San Antonio Spurs associate head coach Sean Sweeney. Sweeney has gained significant traction in coaching circles over the last few years as a top assistant under Gregg Popovich.
The search for a coach without a traditional bench background follows the trajectory of JJ Redick, who transitioned from broadcasting to coaching the Lakers in 2024. Redick has since achieved a 103–61 record over two seasons and currently has Los Angeles leading a first-round playoff series against the Rockets.
Other names linked to the New Orleans vacancy include Kevin Ollie and Darvin Ham, as reported by HoopsHype. Jamahl Mosley is also considered a potential target if the Orlando Magic decide to move in a different direction with their leadership.
Kevin Ollie previously served as the interim coach for the Brooklyn Nets for 28 games and led the UConn Huskies to a national championship in 2014. Pelicans general manager Troy Weaver previously attempted to hire Ollie during his tenure with the Detroit Pistons front office.
Rondo played for the Pelicans during the 2017–18 season and is noted for his high basketball IQ. While he spent time assisting with the Bucks, he has primarily focused on the development of his son, Pierre, before re-entering the professional coaching conversation.