Is Dan Hurley Related to Bobby Hurley?

By Justin Rubin April 02, 2024 13:58

Left: Photo by Patrick Smith, Right: Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images

In the world of basketball, the Hurley family is a name that resonates with fans across generations.

The family's impact on the sport spans decades and encompasses every level of the game, leaving an indelible mark. At the heart of this legacy are two prominent figures in NCAA basketball coaching – Dan Hurley and Bobby Hurley, whose connection goes beyond their shared last name.

The Hurley Household

Dan Hurley, born on January 16, 1973, in Jersey City, New Jersey, to the legendary high school coach Bob Hurley Sr. and Christine Hurley, grew up alongside his siblings, including his older brother Bobby Hurley.

Bobby, a former Duke and Sacramento Kings guard, and the current head coach at Arizona State University, shares a deep-rooted connection with Dan, extending beyond their professional careers in basketball.

A Legacy of Coaching Success

The patriarch of the Hurley family, Bob Hurley Sr., stands as one of the most successful coaches in basketball history.

His illustrious 45-season tenure as the head coach of St. Anthony High School yielded a remarkable 26 state championships, cementing his status as a coaching icon.

Notably, Bob Hurley's induction into the Basketball Hall of Fame underscores his unparalleled impact on the sport. Both Dan and Bobby had the privilege of playing under their father's tutelage, imbibing invaluable lessons that would shape their future endeavors in coaching.

The Coaching Journey

While Bob Hurley Sr. carved his legacy in the high school basketball realm, his sons, Dan and Bobby, embarked on their coaching careers at the collegiate level.

Dan Hurley's coaching trajectory includes notable stints at Saint Benedict's Preparatory School and Wagner College, where he achieved remarkable success in shaping top-tier basketball programs.

His subsequent six-year tenure at the University of Rhode Island saw him lead the team to the NCAA tournaments in 2017 and 2018, marking a significant milestone in the program's history.

Dan's pivotal role in reviving the University of Connecticut Huskies' basketball program culminated in a momentous NCAA championship triumph in 2023, solidifying his status as a distinguished coach in the collegiate basketball landscape.

Conversely, Bobby Hurley's coaching journey saw him assume the head coaching position at Arizona State University, where he continues to make his mark in the NCAA basketball arena.

Sibling Bonds and Shared Legacy

The bond between Dan and Bobby Hurley extends beyond their professional pursuits, rooted in their shared experiences as siblings and fellow basketball enthusiasts.

Their familial connection, coupled with their mutual passion for the sport, underscores the depth of their relationship both on and off the court.

The intertwined journey of Dan and Bobby Hurley in the realm of basketball coaching reflects a narrative of familial legacy, shared passion, and individual excellence.

As the Hurley brothers continue to shape the future of NCAA basketball through their coaching prowess and unwavering dedication, their shared journey stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Hurley family in the realm of basketball coaching.