New York Knicks Hire Mike Brown as New Head Coach
The New York Knicks have officially named Mike Brown as their new head coach ahead of the upcoming NBA season.
Brown, who has won NBA Coach of the Year twice, takes over from Tom Thibodeau, who was sacked last month. Thibodeau had led the Knicks to their best playoff run in 25 years.
Brown, 55, was let go by the Sacramento Kings in December, just months after signing a new contract. His sacking surprised many fans and experts.
He was last named Coach of the Year in the 2022-23 season after guiding the Kings to a 48-34 record and a third-place finish in the Western Conference. That season also ended the longest playoff drought in NBA history.
Knicks president Leon Rose said in a statement:
“Mike has coached at the highest level and brings winning experience to our team. He’s been part of championship teams and knows how to help players improve. We believe he can help us bring a title to New York.”
Brown also won Coach of the Year in 2009 when he led the Cleveland Cavaliers to 66 wins. He had already taken the Cavs to the NBA Finals in 2007.
Over the years, Brown has been part of several winning teams. He was an assistant coach for the San Antonio Spurs when they won the NBA title in 2003, and with the Golden State Warriors during their 2017, 2018, and 2022 championship wins.
The Knicks are now seen as strong contenders in the Eastern Conference, especially as rivals Boston Celtics and Indiana Pacers have both suffered injuries to their star players—Jayson Tatum and Tyrese Haliburton.
Knicks stars Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns had a great first season playing together, helping the team reach the Eastern Conference Finals. With Mike Brown now in charge, fans are hopeful the team can go even further next season.
