Rajon Rondo emerges as surprise candidate for Pelicans head‑coach job

The New Orleans Pelicans have expanded their coaching search, placing Rajon Rondo among the candidates under consideration as the franchise evaluates options beyond interim coach James Borrego. According to reporting from Marc Stein and Jake Fischer, Borrego remains in contention, yet the front office has compiled a five‑man shortlist that includes the unexpected presence of Rondo. The former point guard, who played for the Pelicans in 2017‑18, recently interviewed with the organisation, supported by experience gained as a guest assistant on Doc Rivers’ Milwaukee staff in 2024. Since retiring in 2022, he has balanced coaching study with involvement in flag football, now an Olympic sport for 2028.

New Orleans are also assessing more traditional profiles such as Jarrett Jack, currently an assistant in Detroit, and former Lakers head coach Darvin Ham. Rounding out the list are Spurs assistant Sean Sweeney and Brooklyn deputy Steve Hetzel, as the Pelicans prepare for a pivotal offseason.