A New Era in New York: Knicks Hire Two-Time Coach of the Year
The New York Knicks have hired former Sacramento Kings head coach, Mike Brown, on Wednesday. The long-awaited announcement of a head coach for the Knicks comes little over one month after their best postseason run in 25 years. The former two-time coach of the year replaces Tom Thibodeau, following his shocking firing on June 3rd. As Knicks fans rejoice at having a coach, Brown brings a new perspective to the defense-first mentality that Thibodeau had in place.
Who Is Mike Brown?
Mike Brown has been an established coach in the NBA from his early days in Cleveland, coaching Lebron James and leading them to their first-ever NBA Finals appearance in 2007. After back-to-back 60+ win seasons and a Coach of the Year award in 2009, Brown was let go following the departure of James. Following a one-year break, he returned to the league to coach the Los Angeles Lakers, galvanizing a team with Kobe Bryant and Pau Gasol. Just five games into his second season, Brown was dismissed. He then returned to Cleveland for a brief one-year stint before joining Steve Kerr’s staff in Golden State, where he would be a part of three championship teams. Golden State’s success helped him land the Sacramento Kings job in 2022, where they would break their 17-year postseason drought, which earned him the 2023 Coach of the Year honor.
Is This a Good Move for the Knicks?
New York’s biggest criticism this past season was their lack of bench, or use of it. Thibodeau’s rotation usually includes six to seven players who played a majority of the minutes, particularly in the postseason. Oftentimes, the Knicks appeared drained or plagued by foul trouble at the end of games, and Thibodeau's refusals to use his bench earlier seemed the driving reason for his exit. The move didn’t come without backlash. Players like Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart have been vocal about their love and appreciation they have for Coach Thibs. Known as a “player-coach,” Mike Brown offers a modern perspective to the defensive philosophy already in place for the Knicks. If Brown can get the support of the locker room, New York appears to be prepared for an exciting upcoming season in a wide-open Eastern Conference.
What to Expect from New York in the 2025-2026 Season
Adding Mike Brown is a message to the league and their fans that New York has championship aspirations. In a wide-open Eastern Conference with no clear favorite, the Knicks must feel they are one of the favorites to break out of the East, as serious injuries have plagued Boston, Indiana, and Milwaukee. Brown and the Knicks understand the opportunity they have this year, and utilizing their bench appears to be a main focus for New York this season. In a new era in New York basketball, Knicks fans hope Brown can lead them to a third championship in franchise history.
