Tom Thibodeaus Heartfelt Farewell to New York City and Knicks Fans in The New York Times
As the New York Knicks continue their search for a new head coach, the decision to part ways with Tom Thibodeau has left many in the NBA community in shock. The 67-year-old Thibodeau, who had been with the Knicks since 2020, sent a classy message to the city where he lived out his "dream job" before his firing. In a fitting, old-school way, Thibodeau took out an ad in The New York Times to thank New York City and Knicks fans on Wednesday. "To the best city in the world with the best fans in the world: Thank you," he wrote in the ad. He continued, "When I was hired in 2020, I said this was my dream job. I am grateful that dream became a reality. Thank you to our players and coaching staff who gave everything they had, and to everyone who makes this franchise special. I am proud of everything we accomplished together, including four playoff appearances and this year's run to the Eastern Conference finals — our first in 25 years." The Knicks fell to the Indiana Pacers in six games, two wins shy of making their first NBA Finals appearance since 1999. Less than a week after their Game 6 defeat, the Knicks fired Thibodeau, a decision that shocked many NBA coaches, players, and fans. The move followed a breakthrough season for a New York franchise that's still seeking its first NBA championship since 1973. Thibodeau piloted the Knicks to 51 regular-season wins in 2024-25 — their most in 12 years — and a momentous playoff run, spearheaded by a star-studded starting rotation that featured Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns. Thibodeau's Knicks also hit the 50-win mark last season and won a playoff series for the second year in a row. The 67-year-old Thibodeau earned his second NBA Coach of the Year honor in 2020-21, his debut season with the Knicks, after leading them to their first winning record and playoff appearance since 2012-13. He previously served as head coach of the Chicago Bulls (2010-15) and Minnesota Timberwolves (2016-19). After Thibodeau's firing, Knicks President Leon Rose said in a statement that the move is what "we feel is best for our organization moving forward," though he did thank Thibodeau for everything he poured into the organization and his on-court success. The Knicks have already been denied permission to interview Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd, Minnesota Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch, and Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka by their respective teams. Despite the sudden change at the helm of the Knicks, Thibodeau's impact on the franchise will not be forgotten. He leaves behind a team that has shown significant improvement under his guidance and a legacy of success that will be remembered for years to come.
