As the Knicks struggle to gain permission to interview his future replacement, Tom Thibodeau penned a heartfelt thank you to New York and its fanbase after he was let go by the team after a magical season.
The former head coach took a full page ad out in the New York Times to reflect on a five-year run that saw the franchise turn things around and reach heights it had not seen in 25 years, thanking the fans for their support along the way.
“To the best city in the world with the best fans in the world,” Thibodeau began. “Thank you.”
“When I was hired in 2020, I said this was my dream job. I am grateful that dream became a reality. Thank you to our players and coaching staff who gave everything they had, and to everyone who makes this franchise special. I am proud of everything we accomplished together, including four playoff appearances and this year’s run to the Eastern Conference Finals - our first in 25 years.
“And to the fans, thank you for believing in me and embracing me from day one. Watching you support our team, and seeing the Garden ignite with that incomparable Knicks energy, is something I will never forget.”
Thibodeau was a source of spirited debate during the Knicks playoff run, as many criticized his rotations and unwillingness to change the starting rotation until the season was in dire straits in game three of the conference final.
Regardless, his contributions to the team’s return to prominence is undeniable.