The New York Knicks have surprisingly parted ways with head coach Tom Thibodeau. The 67-year-old had recently led the franchise to the Conference Finals, where they were defeated by the Indiana Pacers, but he was also responsible for the most successful season since 2000.
The New York Knicks had their most successful season in 25 years, only losing to the Indiana Pacers in the Conference Finals. As Shams Charania of ESPN first reported, successful coach Tom Thibodeau has nevertheless been forced to step down. Team president Leon Rose confirmed the reports. Just recently, there had been reports that the coach would be staying on.
Thibodeau had been the Knicks’ coach since 2020. Under the 67-year-old, the franchise made the playoffs four times in five years. The last two seasons ended with more than 50 wins each – the first time the New Yorkers had achieved this twice in a row since the 1990s.
Knicks crave the title – but without Thibodeau
In this year’s playoffs, they surprisingly knocked out the reigning champions from Boston, but then failed as favorites in the Conference Finals. So the dream of the title was shattered once again, and the Knicks have been waiting for their third championship since 1973.
However, the Knicks will make another attempt next season with a powerful team at their disposal. “Our organization is solely focused on winning a championship for our fans. That goal led us to the difficult decision to inform Tom Thibodeau that we have decided to go in a different direction,” Rose explained.
Four playoff appearances in five years
“We cannot thank Tom enough for putting his heart and soul into his work as head coach of the New York Knicks every day. He has not only led us with class and professionalism over the past five seasons, but also to tremendous success on the court with four playoff appearances and four playoff series wins,” added the team president.
It is still unclear who will succeed Thibodeau: “Ultimately, we made the decision we feel is best for the future of our organization. Tom will always be a part of our Knicks family, and we wish him nothing but the best in his future endeavors,” Rose said warmly of the former Bulls and Timberwolves coach.