Knicks Fire Tom Thibodeau, Rick Pitino Declines Coaching Interest

The New York Knicks fired head coach Tom Thibodeau after leading the team to the Eastern Conference Finals, a move that surprised many given his success in reaching the playoffs four times in five seasons. Amid speculation about potential replacements, St. John's head coach Rick Pitino has firmly declined interest in the Knicks job, citing his age and satisfaction with his current role, despite his deep New York ties and coaching history with the Knicks. Pitino expressed sympathy for Thibodeau, praising the coach's impact on the team and confidence that he will find another position. Pitino also commented on the challenging situation the next Knicks coach will face, noting that expectations are extremely high and anything less than an NBA Finals appearance would be considered a failure. While other candidates like Jay Wright have been suggested, Pitino emphasized the difference between coaching college and professional players. The Knicks are now searching for a new head coach amid high pressure and uncertainty about their future direction.