ESPN’s Shams Charania recently commented on the speculation surrounding South Carolina women’s basketball head coach Dawn Staley and the New York Knicks’ search for a new head coach. During his appearance on the Pat McAfee Show, Charania stated that Staley being linked to the Knicks is not something that has been reported to him as of now. He highlighted that the Knicks are actively evaluating multiple candidates, including James Borrego, Taylor Jenkins, Mike Brown, and Micah Nori, mentioning that these are the known interviews happening at this point.
The Knicks are on the lookout for a new head coach following their separation from Tom Thibodeau on June 3, with various names being floated in the rumor mill. Previously, the team sought permission to interview established NBA coaches such as Billy Donovan, Jason Kidd, Ime Udoka, Chris Finch, and Quin Snyder, but all requests were declined.
As Charania noted, current discussions seem to be favoring Borrego, Brown, and Jenkins, with an increased focus on the latter two as potential frontrunners. James Borrego has previously proved his mettle as head coach of the Charlotte Hornets, while Mike Brown has a renowned coaching history, including his time with the Sacramento Kings. Taylor Jenkins has also made a mark with the Memphis Grizzlies.
Dawn Staley has had a remarkable coaching career with the Gamecocks since the 2008-09 season, boasting an impressive record of 475-110 and securing three national titles in the last nine years. Staley has previously drawn interest from NBA teams, having interviewed with the Portland Trail Blazers for their head coach position in 2021. She opted not to pursue the Washington Wizards’ head coaching vacancy when they reached out to her during a November 2023 interview.
Staley’s continued success at the collegiate level showcases her abilities as a leader and strategist, further establishing her reputation in the basketball world. While there may be speculation around her potential move to the NBA, her commitment to South Carolina remains strong as she continues to lead her team to excellence.
This ongoing search for a head coach by the Knicks reflects their determination to find a strong leader who can enhance their competitive edge in the league. The situation presents a hopeful possibility for Staley’s future, should she choose to consider an NBA opportunity.