Washington Basketball: 8 candidates to replace Mike Hopkins as Head Coach

Will Conroy

Before we really dive into some intriguing names that could be lured to Seattle, it’s always important to consider who’s already on the staff. Washington likely will want someone with head coaching experience, especially after Hopkins didn’t work out, but they have a valuable asset right there in Seattle. Conroy has been very involved both on and off the court with this program for some time and would ensure continuity that some might favor.

Conroy played point guard for the Huskies under Lorenzo Romar back in the early 2000’s before a long professional coaching career. He very briefly was in the NBA, the G League, and had a few international stints across nearly a decade of pro ball. Conroy’s coaching career then began in 2015 as an assistant on Romar’s staff. He was retained when Hopkins took over in 2017 and was promoted to associate head coach just a few seasons ago.

Promoting Conroy would maintain current relationships with recruits, but how important is that to the brass at Washington? He’s someone without any head coaching experience and that may be a major issue, even if he does have extended familiarity with the program. Conroy has the makings of a solid head coach someday, but is that time now for a Washington team that needs a big recharge?