Rick Pitino Declines Knicks Head Coaching Job, Focuses on St. Johns NCAA Tournament Preparation

The New York Knicks are in search of a new head coach following the firing of Tom Thibodeau on Tuesday. The Knicks have been linked to several potential candidates, including former Denver Nuggets head coach Michael Malone and ex-Sacramento Kings coach Mike Brown. However, Rick Pitino, who previously worked for the Knicks as an assistant coach and head coach, has officially ruled himself out of the running. Pitino, 72, recently appeared at a New York Yankees game and explained that while he has had a successful career in coaching, he is content with his current position at St. John's and is focused on his team's upcoming NCAA tournament games. His decision to stay at St. John's is understandable given his age and the fact that he is in the midst of a career revival following his tumultuous exit from Louisville. Despite Pitino's decision, the Knicks will still have to look elsewhere for their next head coach. There are several other potential candidates available, including former NBA players like Kenny Smith and Charles Barkley, as well as current NBA assistants like Jordan Ott of the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Knicks will likely make their decision based on a combination of factors, including the candidate's experience, success, and fit with the team's culture and vision. Regardless of who is ultimately hired, the Knicks will be looking for a coach who can help them take the next step and compete for a championship in the Eastern Conference. With Thibodeau's departure, the pressure is on for the Knicks to find the right person to lead them into the future. The Knicks will be hoping that their next head coach can help them build on their recent successes and push them towards even greater heights in the coming seasons.