NEW YORK — The New York Knicks are progressing in their search for a new head coach and will be holding a second interview with two-time NBA Coach of the Year, Mike Brown. Preparations for this next meeting are well underway, according to an insider who disclosed details of the process on Monday. The effort to find a successor for Tom Thibodeau has been ongoing for almost a month, and Brown is the first candidate known to have secured a second round interview for the role.
The Knicks are keeping their options open, and the insider noted that other candidates might also receive invitations for further discussions. These candidates include former Memphis coach Taylor Jenkins, along with James Borrego, an assistant with New Orleans, and Micah Nori, a Minnesota assistant. This revealing information has been shared under the condition of anonymity because the coaching search’s specifics are intended to remain confidential.
News of Brown’s second interview initially came to public attention through a report from the New York Post. Brown has a notable history, having led the Sacramento Kings to the playoffs in 2023, which marked their first appearance in the postseason since 2006. During his time with the Kings, Brown was acknowledged for his coaching prowess, securing the coach of the year title. His record at Sacramento stood at 107-88 over 2.5 seasons until he was released from his duties this past season.
Furthermore, Brown earned the same coaching distinction back in 2009 when he was with Cleveland and boasts a career record of 454-304. The decision to replace Tom Thibodeau, who was dismissed on June 3, came after he successfully guided the Knicks to their first Eastern Conference finals in 25 years. Thibodeau, like Brown, has been honored with the NBA Coach of the Year award while leading two different teams.