Rick Pitino Rejects Knicks: No Finals Pressure
- John's coach Rick Pitino has taken his name out of the running for the New York Knicks' coaching job.During a recent broadcast, Pitino, a New York City native,...
- When asked about the Knicks' coaching vacancy, Pitino, clad in a Yankees jersey, didn't mince words.
- Pitino is familiar with the Knicks, having served as an assistant coach from 1983-85 and head coach from 1987-89.
Rick Pitino has definitively rejected the New York knicks coaching position, citing the immense pressure. The legendary coach, a New York City native familiar with the team, firmly stated he wouldn’t return to the NBA as the Knicks’ head coach.He highlighted the pressure cooker habitat, suggesting any result short of the NBA Finals would be deemed a disappointment.Pitino,who coached the Knicks previously,expressed his surprise at the firing of Tom Thibodeau despite Thibodeau leading the team to the Eastern Conference Finals. Pitino is now focused on St. John’s. Stay informed with News Directory 3 for the latest updates on the knicks’ search for their next head coach. Discover what’s next for the Knicks and the coaching carousel this offseason.
Rick Pitino Shoots down New York Knicks coaching Speculation
St. John’s coach Rick Pitino has taken his name out of the running for the New York Knicks’ coaching job.During a recent broadcast, Pitino, a New York City native, firmly stated he would not return to the NBA as the Knicks’ head coach.
When asked about the Knicks’ coaching vacancy, Pitino, clad in a Yankees jersey, didn’t mince words. He emphasized the intense pressure awaiting the next coach,suggesting anything short of an NBA Finals appearance would be considered a failure. The Knicks recently fired Tom Thibodeau despite his leading the team to their first Eastern Conference finals appearance as 2000.
Pitino is familiar with the Knicks, having served as an assistant coach from 1983-85 and head coach from 1987-89. His previous stint resulted in a 90-74 record and two playoff berths. He has also coached at Louisville and Kentucky.
Pitino recently returned to New York, coaching St. John’s, which plays games at madison Square Garden. He guided the Red Storm to Big East regular season and tournament titles, along with an NCAA tournament appearance.
The Knicks’ decision to fire thibodeau came as a surprise to many, including Pitino.
“I think everybody’s kind of shocked,” Pitino said. “you don’t fire people that take you to the Eastern finals and with the whole town so excited about the team.”
Pitino acknowledged the institution’s decision and its potential consequences. “They made the decision. They’ve got to live with it. Let’s see,” he said.
What’s next
The knicks continue their search for a new head coach, while Pitino remains focused on leading St. John’s in the upcoming season.