Knicks Still Searching for a Head Coach: Who’s the Frontrunner?

By Edcel Panganiban July 08, 2025 21:12

The New York Knicks remain without a head coach as the 2025 offseason progresses, with the search intensifying for the man who will lead the franchise beyond its recent Eastern Conference Finals appearance. After parting ways with Tom Thibodeau who guided the Knicks to their deepest playoff run in 25 years the organization is carefully vetting candidates, balancing experience with fresh vision to meet high expectations in New York’s demanding market.

Among the frontrunners, Mike Brown has emerged as the leading candidate. Brown, 55, boasts a distinguished coaching résumé, including two NBA Coach of the Year awards and a 455-304 career record. He led the Sacramento Kings to back-to-back 46+ win seasons and ended their 16-year playoff drought before being fired early in the 2024-25 season. Brown’s experience with championship-caliber teams having coached the LeBron James-led Cavaliers, the Kobe Bryant-era Lakers, and served as a top assistant with the Golden State Warriors makes him an attractive option for the Knicks. Sources tell ESPN that Brown will have a second interview with New York, underscoring the team’s serious interest.

Another strong candidate is Taylor Jenkins, recently dismissed by the Memphis Grizzlies. Jenkins is known for his player development skills and strong defensive schemes. He has a reputation for maximizing young talent, which aligns well with the Knicks’ core of Jalen Brunson, Julius Randle, and the promising additions of Alperen Şengün and Jalen Williams. Jenkins interviewed with the Knicks and is expected to return for a second round, signaling that the front office values his approach.

Micah Nori, an assistant coach with the Minnesota Timberwolves, has also entered the conversation. Though less experienced as a head coach, Nori has gained recognition for his work with the Wolves and connections to Knicks senior VP Gersson Rosas and star Karl-Anthony Towns. His fresh perspective and familiarity with modern NBA trends could appeal to a Knicks team seeking innovation.

Additionally, James Borrego, former Charlotte Hornets head coach and current New Orleans Pelicans assistant, is a newer name in the mix. Borrego was a finalist for the Cleveland Cavaliers’ head coaching job last summer and brings experience in managing rotations and player relationships. His candidacy adds depth to the Knicks’ search, reflecting their openness to candidates with both head and assistant coaching backgrounds.

The Knicks have also pursued permission to interview several active head coaches, including Dallas Mavericks’ Jason Kidd, Houston Rockets’ Ime Udoka, and Minnesota Timberwolves’ Chris Finch, but all teams denied the requests. This has forced New York to focus on available candidates not currently under contract as head coaches.

Knicks president Leon Rose and the front office are not rushing the decision, aware that the next hire must build on the momentum generated by Thibodeau’s tenure. Coach Brown’s experience in handling star players and playoff pressure, combined with Jenkins’ developmental acumen and Nori’s fresh ideas, form a compelling shortlist.

As Brown himself noted in a recent interview, “New York is a unique challenge, but it’s also one of the most exciting opportunities in the league. I’m eager to bring my experience and help this team reach its full potential.”

In sum, the Knicks’ coaching search is entering a critical phase with Mike Brown favored but strong competition from Taylor Jenkins, Micah Nori, and James Borrego. The decision will shape the franchise’s trajectory as it aims to build on recent success and contend in the ultra-competitive Eastern Conference.

The Knicks’ next head coach will be tasked with sustaining progress and navigating the pressures of New York basketball. The front office’s careful vetting signals a commitment to making the right choice for long-term success.