Another Nets assistant coach may be leaving the team to coach in the college ranks. Popeye Jones, who Avery Johnson first hired in Dallas and then followed him to New Jersey, has expressed interest in the head coaching job at Murray State, his alma mater, according to a Kentucky newspaper.

The Murray Ledger & Times reported Wednesday that while Jones has not had contact with athletic director Allen Ward, "he is in the area". Jones said recently his goal is to be a head coach in the NBA.

"It was something where I thought, 'Man, it would be fun to do that someday,'", said Jones. "As I'm growing in coaching, I'm loving what I'm doing, but Murray State is in my heart. I'm a Racer for life. I still follow the Racers very closely."

Larry Krystkowiak left the Nets last month for a job as head coach of the University of Utah. Krystkowiak cited personal reasons, saying he was tired of being separated from his wife and children, who remained in San Diego while he lived out of a hotel.

• BREAKING: Popeye Jones reportedly interested in Murray State opening - Tommy Dillard - Murray Ledger & Times
• Popeye Jones 'intrigued' by Murray State vacancy - Jeff Bidwell - WPSD Sports