Introduction to the Knicks’ Decision
The New York Knicks fired coach Tom Thibodeau on Tuesday just days after their first trip to the Eastern Conference finals in 25 years, a person with knowledge of the decision told The Associated Press.
Background on the Knicks’ Season
The Knicks were eliminated by the Indiana Pacers with a loss in Game 6 on Saturday night. They then decided to move on from Thibodeau, who led them to the postseason in four of his five seasons in New York.
Decision-Making Process
The decision was made by team president Leon Rose with approval from owner Jim Dolan, the person told the AP on condition of anonymity because no announcement had been made. The firing was first reported by ESPN.
Analysis of the Decision
It’s a strange decision by the Knicks, who had been one of the league’s worst franchises for most of the 2000s until Thibodeau was hired in 2020. He promptly led the Knicks to the playoffs in his first season, winning his second NBA Coach of the Year award, and they have been a solid contender in the East in recent seasons.
Team Performance Under Thibodeau
Their big breakthrough came in 2024-25, when they knocked off defending champion Boston in the second round to reach the conference finals for the first time since 2000 — when Thibodeau was an assistant under Jeff Van Gundy.
Player Reaction
After they were eliminated Saturday, captain Jalen Brunson expressed his support for Thibodeau, bristling at a question about whether he believed the coach was right for the team.
Thibodeau’s Record with the Knicks
Three days later, Thibodeau was gone with a 226-174 record in New York. He has the fourth-most wins by a Knicks coach.
Conclusion
The firing of Tom Thibodeau by the New York Knicks comes as a surprise after the team’s successful season. Despite the team’s progress under his leadership, the decision was made to move on from Thibodeau. This decision will likely have significant implications for the team’s future.
FAQs
- Q: Who was fired by the New York Knicks?
A: Coach Tom Thibodeau was fired by the New York Knicks. - Q: Why was Tom Thibodeau fired?
A: The reason for Thibodeau’s firing is not explicitly stated, but it was a decision made by team president Leon Rose with approval from owner Jim Dolan. - Q: What was Tom Thibodeau’s record with the Knicks?
A: Thibodeau had a 226-174 record in New York, which is the fourth-most wins by a Knicks coach. - Q: Where can I find more information about the NBA?
A: More information about the NBA can be found at https://apnews.com/nba.
