The New York Knicks have initiated a nationwide search for a new head coach following the unexpected dismissal of Tom Thibodeau, despite his role in leading the team to the Eastern Conference Finals. The franchise is now focusing on revitalizing its leadership to return to championship contention.([dukebasketballreport.com][1])
**1. Jeff Van Gundy**
A former Knicks head coach, Van Gundy led the team to six consecutive playoff appearances and an Eastern Conference title in the late 1990s. After a long hiatus, he returned to coaching as an assistant with the Los Angeles Clippers. His deep ties to the organization and familiarity with the New York market make him a strong candidate. ([abc7ny.com][2])
**2. Jerry Stackhouse**
Currently coaching the Raptors 905 in the G League, Stackhouse has demonstrated success in player development and team leadership. His history with Knicks management and his ability to work with young talent align with the team’s current needs. ([abc7ny.com][2])
**3. Sam Cassell**
A three-time NBA champion and former All-Star, Cassell has been an assistant coach for several years. His experience and reputation for developing players make him a compelling option, despite his lack of head coaching experience. ([thebiglead.com][3])
**4. Kenny Atkinson**
Atkinson previously served as the head coach of the Brooklyn Nets, where he was known for his emphasis on player development and team-oriented play. Currently an assistant with the Golden State Warriors, he has a history with the Knicks and is considered a potential candidate. ([si.com][4])
**5. Johnnie Bryant**
An internal candidate, Bryant has served as an assistant coach with the Knicks and has a strong rapport with the team’s core players. While his lack of head coaching experience may be a consideration, his familiarity with the team’s culture could be advantageous. ([nypost.com][5])
### Other Considerations
The Knicks are also exploring options outside the NBA. Dan Hurley, the head coach of UConn’s men’s basketball team, has been linked to the position. However, Hurley has expressed his commitment to UConn and is not actively seeking an NBA role. ([nypost.com][6])
Additionally, Rick Pitino, a legendary college basketball coach, has been mentioned as a potential candidate. However, Pitino has dismissed these rumors, stating he has no intention of returning to the NBA. ([timesofindia.indiatimes.com][7])
### Organizational Priorities
The Knicks are emphasizing prior coaching experience as a key qualification for candidates, though they are not ruling out first-time head coaches. The organization feels no urgency to appoint a new head coach before the NBA Summer League begins on July 10, given their minimal offseason commitments. ([nypost.com][5])
As the search continues, the Knicks are focused on finding a leader who can develop young talent, foster team chemistry, and guide the franchise back to championship contention.
[1]: https://www.dukebasketballreport.com/2025/6/4/24442836/danny-hurley-uconn-new-york-knicks-basketball-los-angeles-lakers-jj-redick-duke-basketball-nba?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Would Hurley Take The Knicks Job?”
[2]: https://abc7ny.com/sports/nine-potential-targets-to-replace-hornacek-as-knicks-head-coach/3330673/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Nine potential targets to replace Hornacek as Knicks head coach – ABC7 New York”
[3]: https://www.thebiglead.com/posts/knicks-tom-thibodeau-fired-replacements-kenny-atkinson-luke-walton-sam-cassell-01fw9fmbs7eh?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Three Candidates to Replace Tom Thibodeau as Knicks Head Coach”
[4]: https://www.si.com/nba/knicks/news/who-new-york-knicks-next-coach-five-possibilities?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Who Is New York Knicks’ Next Coach? 5 (Early) Possibilities”
[5]: https://nypost.com/2025/06/04/sports/knicks-coaching-updates-early-requirements-shaping-the-search/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “The early requirements already shaping the Knicks’ coaching search”
[6]: https://nypost.com/2025/06/04/sports/dan-hurley-makes-knicks-stance-clear-as-rumors-swirl/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Dan Hurley makes Knicks stance clear as rumors swirl about UConn coach’s interest”
[7]: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/nba/top-stories/will-rick-pitino-join-new-york-knicks-as-head-coach-former-louisville-coach-gives-honest-reaction-after-tom-thibodeaus-dismissal/articleshow/121637800.cms?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Will Rick Pitino join New York Knicks as head coach? Former Louisville coach gives honest reaction after Tom Thibodeau’s dismissal”