Knicks' Jalen Brunson Reflects on Tom Thibodeau's Firing, Praises Career Impact

Jalen Brunson expressed his sadness over the firing of Tom Thibodeau, a coach he has known since childhood and who has significantly impacted his basketball career. Brunson's father, Rick Brunson, has worked alongside Thibodeau in various coaching roles and played under him, deepening the personal and professional connection. Since joining the New York Knicks in 2022, Brunson has flourished under Thibodeau, becoming a two-time NBA All-Star, earning All-NBA honors, and leading the team to its first Eastern Conference Finals since 2000. Despite the team's playoff success, including a strong 2025 postseason performance, the Knicks dismissed Thibodeau shortly after their six-game loss to the Indiana Pacers. Brunson acknowledged the difficulty of moving past the playoff defeat but remains optimistic about the future with new head coach Mike Brown. He publicly conveyed his gratitude for Thibodeau's influence on his development and career achievements.