NBA Coaching Carousel 2025: Latest Hires and What They Mean for Contending Teams

By Edcel Panganiban July 04, 2025 09:48

The 2025 NBA offseason has been marked by a flurry of coaching changes that could significantly reshape the league’s competitive landscape. With six teams already making head coaching moves, franchises are betting on fresh leadership to steer them toward contention. From the high-profile appointment of Mike Brown in New York to the youthful energy Jordan Ott brings to Phoenix, the coaching carousel is spinning fast and its impact will be felt come the 2025-26 season.

New York Knicks: Mike Brown Takes the Helm

Perhaps the most headline-grabbing change is the Knicks’ decision to part ways with Tom Thibodeau after five seasons and hire two-time Coach of the Year Mike Brown. Brown inherits a talented roster featuring All-NBA players Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns, as well as versatile wings OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges. Knicks president Leon Rose emphasized the need for a new direction: “We appreciate Coach Thibodeau’s contributions, but it’s time for a fresh voice to lead us forward.” Brown’s challenge will be to revamp the Knicks’ offensive strategy, particularly improving pace and three-point shooting, while maintaining their defensive identity. His proven track record of adapting to modern NBA playstyles makes him a strong candidate to elevate New York’s playoff prospects.

Phoenix Suns: Jordan Ott’s Youthful Vision

The Suns, fresh off firing Mike Budenholzer after one season, have turned to 40-year-old Jordan Ott, formerly an assistant under Kenny Atkinson with the Cleveland Cavaliers. Ott is known for his tactical creativity on both ends of the floor and his ability to connect with young players. Suns GM Brian Gregory stated, “We need a leader who can instill a winning culture and maximize our team’s potential.” With stars like Devin Booker and rising talent Jalen Green, Ott’s offensive and defensive ingenuity could stabilize a roster that struggled with consistency last year.

Sacramento Kings: Doug Christie’s Full-Time Role

After serving as interim coach following Mike Brown’s midseason dismissal, Doug Christie has been named Sacramento’s permanent head coach. A former Kings player and assistant coach, Christie has brought much-needed stability and culture change to a team eager to return to playoff contention. With core players Domantas Sabonis and DeMar DeRozan, Christie’s emphasis on defense and team cohesion could be the catalyst the Kings need to break through in the loaded Western Conference.

San Antonio Spurs: Mitch Johnson’s New Era

The end of an era came when legendary coach Gregg Popovich stepped down after 29 seasons. Assistant Mitch Johnson was promoted to head coach, tasked with maintaining the Spurs’ proud tradition while adapting to the evolving NBA landscape. Johnson inherits a young roster and faces the delicate balance of honoring Popovich’s legacy while implementing his own vision. The Spurs’ front office is hopeful Johnson’s modern approach will accelerate their rebuild.

Other Notable Moves

The Memphis Grizzlies promoted Tuomas Iisalo from interim to full-time head coach after stabilizing the team during a turbulent stretch. Similarly, the Denver Nuggets elevated David Adelman following a successful interim stint, aiming to build on their recent championship pedigree.

What These Changes Mean for Contenders

NBA analyst Mike Schmitz summarized the trend: “This offseason’s coaching moves show that NBA teams are looking for adaptability and culture-building more than ever. The right coach can be the difference between a playoff team and a championship contender.” Teams like the Knicks and Suns are betting on experienced coaches to maximize their star talent, while Sacramento and San Antonio are focused on culture and development under fresh leadership.

As free agency unfolds and rosters take shape, these new coaches will have their first opportunities to imprint their philosophies. The 2025-26 season promises to be a proving ground for these hires, with playoff hopes and legacies on the line.