“He’s meant a lot to me”: Jalen Brunson speaks publicly for the first time about Knicks firing Tom Thibodeau

In a stunning move that sent shockwaves through the basketball world, the New York Knicks parted ways with head coach Tom Thibodeau, just days after leading the franchise to its first Eastern Conference Finals appearance in 25 years.

The decision was announced in the early hours of Wednesday, June 4 (Philippine Standard Time), shortly after the Knicks were eliminated in Game 6 of the East Finals by the Indiana Pacers.

Thibodeau’s abrupt dismissal has left fans and players reeling, especially considering the franchise’s recent resurgence under his leadership.

Jalen Brunson, the Knicks’ star guard who blossomed under Thibodeau’s system, expressed disappointment over the coaching change.

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“It’s sad to see a man I have known for a long time part ways with this organization. He has meant a lot to me. I have expressed that to him publicly and personally,” said Brunson. “He has meant a lot to my career up to this point.”

Jalen Brunson said he’s sad to see Thibs go 🫡 pic.twitter.com/67GLABQk79

— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) September 23, 2025

Brunson experienced a career resurgence since joining the Knicks from the Dallas Mavericks in 2022. Under Thibodeau, he averaged 26.4 points per game over three seasons, earning the NBA Clutch Player of the Year award last season and becoming the heart of the Knicks’ offense.

Josh Hart, another key player and a defensive stalwart, echoed similar sentiments. Hart enjoyed a breakout season under Thibodeau, posting career highs in rebounds (9.6), assists (5.9), steals (1.5), and minutes (37.6), while averaging 13.6 points per game.

“Yeah, obviously, I love Thibs. I’m always going to have love for Thibs for the things that he helped me with—putting me in a position to be successful, to be paid,” said Hart. “I hope he is doing well right now.”

Tom Thibodeau, 67, was hired as head coach in 2020 and spent five seasons in New York. During his tenure, he guided the Knicks to the playoffs four times and posted a 226–174 regular-season record. Only three coaches in the franchise’s history have recorded more wins.

His stint in New York added to an already impressive résumé that includes head coaching roles with the Chicago Bulls and Minnesota Timberwolves, two NBA Coach of the Year awards (2011, 2021), and an NBA title in 2008 as an assistant with the Boston Celtics. Thibodeau now holds a career coaching record of 578–420, and speculation is already building around where he might land next.

Despite questions about his demanding style and minutes management, Thibodeau leaves behind a legacy of toughness, discipline, and results—a formula that helped bring credibility and competitiveness back to Madison Square Garden.

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