Tommy Lloyd does nothing to silence UNC rumors with his 'right now' comments

Arizona head coach Tommy Lloyd addressed reporters on Thursday by stating that he is fully focused on the Wildcats and their game with Michigan on Saturday in the Final Four, not the opening at North Carolina. Lloyd has been rumored as a candidate at UNC since head coach Hubert Davis was fired last week.

Chicago Bulls head coach Billy Donovan, Lloyd and ironically Dusty May of Michigan are being rumored as the top three candidates at North Carolina. The Tar Heels' administration is being patient with a potential replacement for Davis.

Davis had 125 wins and 54 losses in five seasons at North Carolina. Lloyd began as a head coach in 2021-22, the same as Davis and has 148 wins and 35 losses. North Carolina lost 72-69 to Kansas in the 2022 NCAA Championship Game in Davis' first season after blowing a 16-point halftime lead.

Lloyd has maintained he is focused on Arizona since he emerged as one of the primary candidates at North Carolina. In his press conference on Thursday, Lloyd reiterated that his focus is with Arizona and that is what the Wildcats deserve.

"I got my full focus on this team. Nothing is distracting me...that's just how I've decided to approach it...We had a really good practice today. I'm excited to plan for a practice tomorrow....I'm kind of just one thing at a time. I'm not a multitasker...I'm 100% locked in on Arizona basketball...I'm excited to see what this team can do. I have a real strong belief in this team and this team deserves my full attention. So that's what I'm giving them."

Arizona head coach Tommy Lloy

What is Tommy Lloyd's interest in UNC?

Some analysts have stated that Lloyd has not directly dismissed an interest in being considered as a candidate at North Carolina. A large faction of Arizona fans has dismissed the idea that Lloyd is interested in being considered at UNC.

The outcome of the second National Semifinal on Saturday between Arizona and Michigan could have a major impact on who the next coach at North Carolina is. If reports are accurate, the losing coach on Saturday could shortly be interviewed by North Carolina.

The Bulls do not finish their season until April 12. The winner between Arizona and Michigan will play in the National Championship Game on Monday. North Carolina is expected to move quickly once the College Basketball season opens on Monday.

Although the Bulls finish their season six days after the NCAA Championship, the Transfer Portal opens on Tuesday. The Transfer Portal remains open through April 21. Waiting for Donovan could cost North Carolina an opportunity at several transfers.