New York Knicks dismiss Tom Thibodeau after five seasons as head coach

Knicks part ways with Tom Thibodeau after playoff exit

The New York Knicks announced Tuesday, June 3, the dismissal of head coach Tom Thibodeau after five seasons. The decision follows the team’s second-round playoff exit to the Indiana Pacers in Game 6 last week.

Thibodeau led the Knicks to the Eastern Conference Finals this season, marking the franchise’s first appearance in that round in 25 years. Under his leadership, the team reached the playoffs in four of five seasons and recorded consecutive 50-win seasons for the first time since the 1990s.

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Team president Leon Rose issued a statement emphasizing the organization’s championship aspirations. “Our organization is singularly focused on winning a championship for our fans,” Rose said. “This pursuit led us to the decision to inform Tom Thibodeau that we've decided to move in another direction.”

Rose added, “We can't thank Tom enough for pouring his heart and soul into each and every day of being the New York Knicks head coach... Ultimately, we made the decision we feel is best for our organization moving forward.”

Following the team’s elimination, several players publicly expressed their support for Thibodeau. Team captain Jalen Brunson voiced his backing after the loss, while starting guard Josh Hart posted on social media that he was “forever grateful.”

The Knicks extended Thibodeau’s contract last summer through the 2027–28 season. He finishes his New York tenure with the fourth-most coaching wins in franchise history.

Prior to joining the Knicks, Thibodeau served as head coach of the Chicago Bulls (2010–2015) and Minnesota Timberwolves (2016–2019). According to ESPN Research, his .579 win percentage is the highest among coaches in NBA history who have not reached the Finals, with a minimum of 300 games coached.

The Knicks have not announced a replacement.