The Los Angeles Lakers are preparing a long-term deal to make UConn’s Dan Hurley the team’s next coach, according to an ESPN report.

The report, citing sources, indicated the franchise is preparing a “massive, long-term contract” for Hurley, who has won back-to-back NCAA national championships with the Huskies.

Hurley has been at the forefront of the Lakers’ search since the start, per ESPN, despite media reports that JJ Redick has been the front-runner for the job.

The Lakers interviewed Charlotte Hornets assistant James Borrego, Redick, Boston Celtics assistant Sam Cassell and Denver Nuggets assistant David Adelman, sources told ESPN.

However, Hurley, 51, has expressed interest to one day coach in the NBA.

UConn has positioned itself for a third straight national title, but the Huskies did lose two lottery picks in center Donovan Clingan and guard Stephon Castle to the NBA draft.

The Lakers dismissed coach Darvin Ham after a first-round exit in the Western Conference playoffs. Ham was 94-70 in two seasons.

Mark Heim is a reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_Heim. He can be heard on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5 FM in Mobile or on the free Sound of Mobile App from 6 to 9 a.m. daily.