Former D’Tigers coach Mike Brown has shared his excitement and high expectations after being appointed head coach of NBA Eastern Conference side, the New York Knicks, according to The PUNCH.

Brown, 55, becomes the 32nd head coach in Knicks history after signing a four-year contract reportedly worth $40 million. His appointment follows his recent dismissal by the Sacramento Kings, despite being named NBA Coach of the Year in 2023.

The Knicks selected Brown after an extensive search that included interviews with several prominent candidates such as Taylor Jenkins, Micah Nori, James Borrego, and even NCAA women’s basketball legend Dawn Staley.

Speaking at his introductory press conference at the Knicks’ practice facility in Tarrytown, Brown said,

“Nobody has bigger expectations than I do. My expectations are high—this is the Knicks. Madison Square Garden is iconic, and I’m excited for the opportunity.”

He added,

“Our goal is to build a sustainable winning culture that leads to championships. I’ve already had some great conversations with our players and look forward to building strong, positive relationships. Leon [Rose] and I have begun discussions on assembling a coaching staff—it’s an ongoing process.”

Brown’s coaching resume is impressive. He is a two-time NBA Coach of the Year—first with the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2009 and later with the Kings in 2023. As an assistant, he has four NBA championship rings: one with the San Antonio Spurs in 2003 and three with the Golden State Warriors in 2017, 2018, and 2022.

The Knicks are aiming to return to title contention and end their 52-year championship drought. The move to appoint Brown comes after the franchise parted ways with former head coach Tom Thibodeau, following their second-round exit in the 2025 NBA playoffs, where they lost 4-2 to eventual finalists, the Indiana Pacers