UNC Nears Staff Finish as Tibaldi Interviewed

Context Malone, hired as North Carolina’s head coach in early 2024, has been assembling a support team to complement his NBA‑tested approach. The Tar Heels lost several assistants to other programs, creating openings that Malone aims to fill quickly. A complete staff is seen as vital for continuity in recruiting and player development as the team prepares for the 2024‑25 season.

Key Facts Tibaldi spent six years with the Cleveland Cavaliers, most recently earning a promotion to assistant coach under Kenny Atkinson in September 2024. Before that, he worked as a player development coach and held video‑coordination roles with the Bulls, Missouri, DePaul and Cleveland State. Malone had nearly finalized a deal with former Providence head coach Kim English, but English withdrew late in the process. Tibaldi, who once served as an assistant under English at Providence, is now interviewing in Chapel Hill.

What It Means If hired, Tibaldi would bring recent NBA assistant experience and a familiarity with English’s coaching style, potentially smoothing the transition after English’s exit. His background in video analytics and player development aligns with Malone’s emphasis on data‑driven preparation. The addition could stabilize the staff while Malone continues to evaluate other candidates.

Watch for an official announcement from UNC in the coming days, which will clarify the final composition of Malone’s coaching staff and signal how the Tar Heels plan to approach the upcoming season.