Knicks Interview Borrego for Head Coach Vacancy

The New York Knicks have been granted permission to interview New Orleans Pelicans associate coach James Borrego as part of their search for a new head coach after the surprising dismissal of Tom Thibodeau, who recently led the team to its first Eastern Conference finals in 25 years. Borrego, previously head coach of the Charlotte Hornets from 2018 to 2022, is the fourth known candidate, joining Mike Brown, Taylor Jenkins, and Micah Nori. The Knicks were denied permission to interview other head coaches, including Jason Kidd, Billy Donovan, Chris Finch, Quin Snyder, and Ime Udoka. Borrego brings experience as both an NBA head coach and as an assistant with two championships under Gregg Popovich with the Spurs. The head coaching job is seen as attractive due to the Knicks’ talented roster, led by Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns, following a 51-win season. The ongoing search is taking place amid speculation that player input may be influencing the team's direction.