Bart Young/NBAE via Getty ImagesWes Unseld Jr., the Denver Nuggets assistant coaching coach, has been reportedly "emerged" as a serious candidate to fill the Orlando Magic's head coach vacancy.Shams Charania and Josh Robbins of The Athletic reported that the Magic began the "next stage" of their coaching search Thursday by interviewing Unseld.It is not clear how many candidates will be invited for second interviews. Other Orlando front office representatives include Willie Green of Phoenix Suns, Becky Hammon of San Antonio Spurs and Steve Hetzel.Penny Hardaway is the University of Memphis' head coach. He played for the Magic in seven of the first seven years of his NBA career. However, he spoke to the team Tuesday and announced that he will be staying with the Tigers to pursue a college basketball championship.Orlando is looking to replace Steve Clifford. Clifford and Orlando parted ways in June when the Magic failed to qualify to the playoffs. In three seasons, he posted a record of 96-131. This included two playoff appearances.After 16 years of being an assistant, Unseld wants to be a head coach in the NBA. Prior to joining the Nuggets' team in 2015, Unseld spent time with the Washington Wizards and the Golden State Warriors.From 2012 to 2015, the Maryland native was Jacque Vaughn's assistant in Orlando.In December, he was promoted to associate coach by the Nuggets. Denver head coach Michael Malone also vouched in his favor as a future coach."Wes is deserving of this promotion. Malone stated that he is among the most hardworking people I have ever met in this league. He has been an integral part my coaching staff since our arrival in Denver in 2015. "I have said it numerous times that Wes is ready to be a head coach in the NBA. It's only a matter time before that day comes," Malone stated.The Magic ended the 2020-21 season with the NBA’s third-worst record of 21-51. However, they have a young roster with seven players under contract next season. They also own the No. 5th pick in a talent-rich 2021 Draft
