Former Sacramento Kings boss Mike Malone has been named the new head coach of the Denver Nuggets.

The 46-year-old takes over from Melvin Hunt, who had been in interim charge of the team since the sacking of Brian Shaw in March.

"Michael's experiences throughout his basketball career have helped shape him into a coach and person that we believe can help take our organisation to a special place in the future," said Nuggets president Josh Kroenke in a statement.

According to Yahoo! Sports, Malone has put pen to paper on a four-year contract, with the last year a team option.