Tom Thibodeau isn’t done coaching basketball-not by a long shot.
The veteran head coach, who most recently led the New York Knicks, made it clear during a Monday appearance on SiriusXM’s The Starting Lineup that he’s actively preparing for his next opportunity on the sidelines. “I’m preparing for the next opportunity,” Thibodeau said. “Hopefully I’ll be ready for it.”
If history is any indication, he will be.
Thibodeau’s five-year stint in New York was nothing short of impactful. He compiled a 226-174 record and brought the Knicks to the playoffs in each of those five seasons-an impressive turnaround for a franchise that had struggled for consistency prior to his arrival. His tenure peaked last season when he guided the team to the Eastern Conference Finals, a run that reinvigorated Madison Square Garden and reminded fans what playoff basketball in New York can feel like when it’s clicking.
It wasn’t just the postseason success that stood out. Thibodeau’s regular-season track record was rock-solid.
He led the Knicks to four 40+ win seasons, including back-to-back 50-win campaigns in his final two years. His efforts in the 2020-21 season earned him NBA Coach of the Year honors after steering the Knicks to a 41-31 record in a shortened season that saw them return to relevance.
Despite that success, the Knicks made a surprising move last June, parting ways with Thibodeau and bringing in Mike Brown as his replacement. Brown has had a respectable start, posting a 27-18 record so far, but the team has hit a rough patch, dropping nine of its last 13 games. That stretch has only reignited conversations about Thibodeau’s abrupt exit and what he still has to offer.
And what he offers is a proven ability to build culture, demand accountability, and win.
Before his time in New York, Thibodeau made his name with the Chicago Bulls (2010-2015), where he helped mold a young Derrick Rose into an MVP and led the Bulls to consistent playoff appearances. He later took the reins in Minnesota (2016-2019), bringing the Timberwolves to the postseason for the first time in 14 years. Across 13 seasons as a head coach, Thibodeau owns a 578-420 record and has made the playoffs 10 times-a track record few available coaches can match.
That legacy was on full display last weekend during Derrick Rose’s jersey retirement ceremony in Chicago. Rose, who has always credited Thibodeau for his early development and success, made sure to spotlight his former coach during the celebration. It was a fitting reminder of the deep connections Thibodeau builds with his players and the respect he commands around the league.
At 68, Thibodeau still carries the same intensity and preparation that have defined his coaching style from the beginning. He first rose to prominence as an assistant coach under Doc Rivers in Boston, where he helped anchor the Celtics’ defense en route to the 2008 NBA Championship. That championship pedigree, combined with his ability to maximize rosters and instill a defensive identity, makes him one of the most appealing candidates for any team looking to reset or take the next step.
With several coaching jobs likely to open up this offseason, don’t be surprised if Thibodeau’s name is at the top of more than a few shortlists. He’s ready. And based on his resume, he’s earned another shot.