PORTLAND, Ore. (June 23, 2026) – The Portland Trail Blazers have named Micah Nori as the team’s head coach, it was announced today by General Manager Joe Cronin.

“After an extensive search process, it became clear that Micah embodies the qualities we are looking for in the leader of this franchise,” said Cronin. “He has been a key contributor to successful organizations and brings a wealth of expertise, a proven ability to develop players and an authenticity that aligns with the culture we are building.  We are excited about the future under his direction and look forward to what we can accomplish together.”

Nori brings nearly three decades of NBA knowledge to Portland including extensive playoff experience. He spent the previous five seasons as the lead assistant coach with the Minnesota Timberwolves helping guide the franchise to multiple playoff appearances and back-to-back Western Conference Finals in the 2023-24 and 2024-25 seasons. While on head coach Chris Finch’s staff, Nori took on a larger role during the team’s 2024 Western Conference Finals playoff run as the team’s acting head coach while Finch was sidelined with an injury.

“I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to lead the Trail Blazers and want to thank Tom, Joe and the Rip City Rising ownership group for their trust,” said Nori. “From my conversations with Tom and Joe, it was evident that there is a strong commitment to building a culture that values accountability, development and team success. This is a team with tremendous talent, and I’m excited to begin working with our players and staff.”

An experienced coach known for his ability to connect and teach, Nori has held assistant coaching positions with the Detroit Pistons (2018-21), Denver Nuggets (2015-18), Sacramento Kings (2013-15) and Toronto Raptors (2009-13). He began his NBA career in 1998 with the Toronto Raptors, holding roles as director of NBA Scouting and advance scout before becoming an assistant in 2009. Throughout his career, Nori has coached on four NBA Coach of the Year staffs and has coached 27 NBA All-Star players.

The Middletown, Ohio native is married to Melissa and the couple have two children, Dante and Mia. A professional baseball outfielder, Dante was drafted in the first round by the Philadelphia Phillies in the 2024 MLB Draft.