Knicks Tap Brown Following Month-Long Evaluation
The New York Knicks are expected to appoint Mike Brown as their new head coach, sources told ESPN on Wednesday. This move follows a thorough month-long search led by team president Leon Rose after Tom Thibodeau’s departure.
The Knicks initially sought permission to speak with five current NBA head coaches but were denied. As a result, they shifted focus to available candidates and conducted several multi-round interviews. Among all contenders, Brown emerged as the clear frontrunner for his elite experience and compelling strategic outlook.
Brown’s Three-Decade Coaching Pedigree
Brown arrives with a résumé few can match. A two-time NBA Coach of the Year, he’s also a four-time NBA champion as an assistant with the Golden State Warriors and San Antonio Spurs under Steve Kerr and Gregg Popovich.
He’s coached legendary players such as Stephen Curry, LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, and Tim Duncan. His ability to adapt across eras and systems has made him one of the most respected names in coaching circles.
Turning Sacramento Around and Attracting Knicks’ Attention
In 2023, Brown guided the Sacramento Kings to their first playoff appearance in 16 years, boasting the league’s best offensive rating. Though he was dismissed in 2024 after a rocky start, his prior success left a lasting impression across the league.
Brown’s Sacramento tenure highlighted his ability to quickly build trust with players and implement winning systems—two traits high on the Knicks’ wishlist.
Only Candidate Brought Back for Multiple Interviews
Sources say Brown was the lone finalist invited for several interviews. His last meeting—held with Leon Rose, owner James Dolan, and top execs—sealed the deal.
While other candidates included Taylor Jenkins, James Borrego, and Micah Nori, none advanced to the final decision phase as Brown did.
Brown Tasked With Ending Knicks’ Championship Drought
Brown owns a 454-304 career coaching record, including a 2009 Coach of the Year award with Cleveland and another in 2023 with Sacramento. He also led the Cavaliers to the 2007 NBA Finals.
Now, he takes over a Knicks team hungry for success. New York hasn’t won a championship since 1973 or reached the Finals since 1999. After falling short against Indiana in last season’s Eastern Conference Finals, the franchise hopes Mike Brown is the leader who can deliver a long-awaited title run.
