The New York Knicks shocked the basketball world when they decided to part ways with head coach Tom Thibodeau following their most successful NBA Playoffs appearance in over 20 years, reaching the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time since 1999. Despite this achievement, the team’s leadership is still grappling with the impact of losing a respected coach. Jalen Brunson’s reaction to Knicks firing Thibodeau reflects both respect and gratitude for the coach’s role in the team’s growth and his own development.

Among the Knicks’ outspoken leaders, Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart candidly shared their emotions and perspectives on Thibodeau’s departure during an episode of their ‘Roommates Show’ podcast. Both players emphasized the strong personal and professional bonds they formed with Thibodeau while highlighting his influence on their careers and the Knicks organization.

Josh Hart Reflects on Thibodeau’s Influence and Coaching Legacy

Josh Hart expressed how the departure of Thibodeau marked a significant shift for the organization. He acknowledged the stability and support the coach provided during his earlier career struggles, describing Thibodeau as a guiding force who helped him become a reliable starter in the league. Hart stated,

The landscape of the team, the organization, has changed obviously with Thibs being gone,

and added,

We wanted to give a shoutout to Thibs, especially for myself. He helped make me into the player that I am. I had a lot of instability in the early part of my career, and he kind of gave me that stability and that opportunity to flourish as a player in the league, as a starter in the league. I’m always gonna be forever grateful for him.

He also reflected on the personal connection beyond basketball, saying,

Obviously, this is always a tough part of the NBA because you grow relationships not just on the court, but off the court and personal relationships. I always got love for him. It’s always tough when there is a coaching change.

Hart further praised the foundation Thibodeau built with the Knicks, remarking on the team‘s transformation under his leadership. He recalled,

Especially now, people have their own perceptions of certain things, or the end of the season or whatever it is, but he took that job when the Knicks were just bums, 20 wins,

and continued,

He got that job and was there for five years, made the playoffs four years, first Eastern Conference finals for 25 years, and he helped Knicks basketball go back into the top level in the league. He should get a lot of credit for the foundation that he built.

Jalen Brunson Shares Gratitude for Thibodeau’s Coaching and Personal Support

Jalen Brunson, who has flourished remarkably under Thibodeau’s mentorship, expressed deep appreciation for the coach’s confidence and guidance. Reflecting on his long history with Thibodeau, Brunson said,

This is my first firing. Obviously, I’ve known him my entire life. But I remember having conversations and moments with him in eighth grade when we moved to Chicago, and just to see where we are now, he helped me become a two-time All-Star, two-time All-NBA,

highlighting the significant milestones achieved during their time together.

Brunson also praised Thibodeau’s faith in him, stating,

The things he’s done for me, individually, I’m so grateful for. Just because he had the confidence in me that I knew I had, but, like, it’s great to see someone push it, push me to be better. Obviously, I had my dad, and he believes in me more than anyone. Him and my mom believe in me more than anyone. To have Thibs to do what he did for my career, I’m just so grateful and thankful for. Not enough things can be said about what he’s meant to myself, my career,

underscoring the personal impact the coach has had on both his skills and mindset.

Players Acknowledge Challenges Amid Season’s Unexpected End

Despite their successful season, the Knicks ended with disappointment, which contributed to the coaching change. Josh Hart reflected on the nature of professional basketball coaching, recognizing the difficulties involved. He remarked,

I think we had a really good year. I think it didn’t end how we wanted it to end. Sometimes when the season doesn’t end how you want it, or how you expected it to, there’s always changes, whether that’s coaches, players,

signaling the realities of changes following unmet expectations.

He added,

Thibs was my sixth coach in eight years. The NBA coaching profession is tough. Whenever you don’t finish how you wanted or expected, there’s always gonna be changes. That one is a tough one. I just think there should be nothing but praise for him and his time in New York.

Josh Hart Defends Thibodeau Against Criticism on Social Media

After speaking about Thibodeau on their podcast, Josh Hart used social media to respond strongly to critics of the former coach. He expressed frustration toward those who dismissed Thibodeau’s contributions to the team, posting on X,

All y’all talking trash about Thibs lame as hell. A different direction was taken but yall should be appreciative for what he did for the team and organization,

reflecting the players‘ loyalty and respect for their former coach.

Many media voices criticized Thibodeau’s coaching style, labeling it outdated and ineffective in today’s fast-paced NBA. However, Hart’s defense showed the tight bond and value the players placed on his leadership, even as the Knicks move forward.

Thibodeau’s Departure Marks a Turning Point for the Knicks

Tom Thibodeau’s firing marks a significant transition for the Knicks as the team searches for new leadership after a breakthrough playoff run. His five years in New York brought stability and success, reviving the franchise’s competitiveness and inspiring key players like Jalen Brunson to elevate their games substantially. Brunson’s development under Thibodeau—from averaging 16 points per game to 25, while becoming a two-time All-Star and All-NBA member—highlights the coach’s lasting influence.

As the Knicks consider their next steps, the appreciation from Brunson and Hart signals a respect for the foundation laid by Thibodeau. The coaching change may bring a new direction, but the groundwork for future success was undeniably shaped by his tenure. The team, fans, and analysts will closely watch how the Knicks rebuild and whether the new leadership can maintain the progress made during the past seasons.