New York Knicks star guard Jalen Brunson broke his silence regarding the stunning firing of Tom Thibodeau last week.
In the latest edition of The Roommates Show, Brunson addressed the move and took the time to express his appreciation for Thibodeau during their time together in New York.
“My 1st firing. Known him my entire life…Helped me become two-time All Star, two-time All NBA, the things he’s done for me individually, I’m so grateful for,” Brunson said. “He had a confidence in me that I knew I had, but it’s great to see someone push it, like push you to be better.”
Brunson burst into stardom the moment he showed up in New York under Thibodeau’s guide. The 28-year-old averaged 26.4 points and 6.7 assists in three seasons with Thibodeau at the helm, and 29.9 points and 6.8 assists in the postseason.
“Not enough things can be said about what he’s meant to myself and my career,” Brunson added.
In the immediate aftermath of the Knicks’ defeat in the Eastern Conference Finals, Brunson was asked if he felt Thibodeau was the right man for the job. Brunson responded “Is that a real question right now? You just asked me if I believe he’s the right guy? Yes.”
Teammate Josh Hart also chimed in on the stunning move, saying there should be “nothing but praise” for Thibodeau.
“Always gonna be changes,” Hart said. “That was a tough one. But, I just think there should be nothing but praise for him and his time in New York.” To which Brunson agreed.
The Knicks have been involved in a wide coaching search since Thibodeau’s departure. Recent reports suggest that Mike Brown and Taylor Jenkins appear to be the primary candidates to fulfill the vacancy.
