The Stephen A. Smith Show: In-Depth Analysis of Knicks' Coaching Carousel and New York’s All-Time Great Point Guards
Release Date: June 6, 2025
Introduction
In this episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show, hosted by Stephen A. Smith in collaboration with iHeartPodcasts, the focus centers on the recent significant developments within the New York Knicks organization. The discussion delves into the unexpected firing of head coach Tom Thibodeau, analyzes potential coaching replacements, and celebrates some of the greatest point guards in New York's basketball history. The episode offers a blend of insightful commentary, expert opinions, and passionate debate suitable for both avid basketball fans and casual listeners interested in the dynamics of professional sports management.
Firing of Tom Thibodeau
Timestamp: [01:18]
Stephen A. Smith opens the discussion by addressing the stonking news of Tom Thibodeau's dismissal from his role as head coach of the New York Knicks. This decision came abruptly, just days after Thibodeau led the Knicks to their deepest playoff run in 25 years, achieving back-to-back 50-win seasons—the first time since 1995. Notably, Thibodeau now ranks fourth all-time in coaching victories for the franchise, highlighting the magnitude of his departure.
"This move came just a few days after the Knicks made their deepest playoff run in 25 years. Tibbs...leaves ranking fourth all time on a franchise list in coaching victories." – Stephen A. Smith [01:18]
Potential Coaching Replacements
Timestamp: [02:02] - [14:00]
Stephen A. Smith meticulously outlines a list of potential head coaching candidates for the Knicks, emphasizing the need for strategic selection to harness the talents of current players like Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns. The primary candidates discussed include:
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Ime Udoka
- Prospects: Praised for his success with the Boston Celtics and his current role with the Houston Rockets.
- Challenges: Udoka is under a two-year contract with the Rockets, making a transition to the Knicks complex.
"Eme Udoka is under contract for the next two years. He can't leave unless Tillman Fertitta granted him the freedom to do so. And I'm here to tell you that shit ain't happening." – Stephen A. Smith [04:38]
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Mark Jackson
- Prospects: A former Knicks player and head coach with a rich history in the NBA, including mentoring the Golden State Warriors.
- Challenges: Despite his qualifications, Mark Jackson has been "blackballed" from obtaining another head coaching position in the league.
"Can somebody explain to me why this man is still blackballed from the NBA." – Stephen A. Smith [10:38]
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Mike Malone
- Prospects: The Denver Nuggets' head coach, known for winning an NBA championship and possessing a "great basketball mind."
- Challenges: Malone departed Denver under tense circumstances, limiting his immediate availability.
"Mike Malone is a champion and a damn great basketball mind who has proven he can coach." – Stephen A. Smith [09:27]
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Rick Brunson
- Prospects: Jalen Brunson's father and an experienced coach with NBA playing history.
- Challenges: Primarily serves as a bench coach, requiring a step up to a head coaching role.
"I like Rick Brunson. I think he's somebody that we should keep our eyes on for future opportunities in the NBA." – Stephen A. Smith [09:23]
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Jay Wright
- Prospects: Former Villanova head coach with multiple national championships.
- Challenges: Focused on collegiate basketball, making the transition to the NBA a significant shift.
"Jay Wright, former head coach at Villanova, two time national champion, four trips to the final four." – Stephen A. Smith [08:49]
Honorable Mentions:
- Sam Cassell: Assistant coach with the Boston Celtics, deserving of head coaching opportunities.
- Danny Hurley: Connecticut's head coach, recognized for his institutional legacy.
"Sam Cassell deserves a head coaching opportunity at some point, if not already." – Stephen A. Smith [14:00]
Discussion Highlights:
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Eme Udoka's Viability: Despite his excellence, contractual obligations and loyalty to owner Tillman Fertitta hinder Udoka's immediate move to the Knicks. Smith emphasizes Udoka's fit for the Knicks' culture and his understanding of both Eastern and Western Conference dynamics.
"Eme Udoka is a hell of a coach...he epitomizes who the New York Knicks are as a franchise." – Jay Williams [03:07], Affirmed by Stephen A. Smith [04:05]
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Mark Jackson's Stagnation: Smith expresses frustration over Jackson's exclusion from coaching opportunities despite his expertise and previous success, questioning the NBA's decision-making process.
"Can somebody explain to me why this man is still blackballed from the NBA." – Stephen A. Smith [10:38]
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Mike Malone's Championship Experience: Highlighting Malone's championship pedigree, Smith considers him a strong candidate capable of leading the Knicks to further success.
"Mike Malone is a champion and a damn great basketball mind who has proven he can coach." – Stephen A. Smith [09:27]
Stephen A. Smith's Analysis and Insights
Throughout the episode, Stephen A. Smith provides in-depth analysis and personal insights:
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Contractual Constraints: Emphasizes the difficulty in acquiring coaches under existing contracts, particularly highlighting Udoka's situation with the Rockets.
"He ain't going nowhere if Tillman Fertitta has anything to say about it." – Stephen A. Smith [04:38]
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Consistency in Coaching Philosophy: Advocates for a coaching style that evolves with the changing landscape of the NBA, referencing a conversation with Jay Williams about adapting from "1990s basketball."
"You can't win in 2025 playing 1990s basketball. You have to change up your style." – Jay Williams [03:07]
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Celebration of New York's Basketball Legacy: Shifts focus to honoring the rich history of point guards in New York, mentioning legends like Stephon Marbury, Rod Strickland, and others.
"Stephon Marbury might be the greatest point guard in the history of New York." – Jalen Rose [12:14]
Celebrating New York’s All-Time Great Point Guards
Timestamp: [12:06] - [13:56]
In addition to coaching discussions, the episode takes a nostalgic turn, celebrating some of the greatest point guards to have donned a New York jersey:
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Stephon Marbury: Recognized for his exceptional playmaking and leadership.
"Stephon Marbury might be the greatest point guard in the history of New York." – Stephen A. Smith [12:17]
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Nate "Tiny" Archibald: Honored for his versatile skills and pioneering impact on the game.
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Rod Strickland: Applauded for his agility and court vision.
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Dwayne "Pearl" Washington: Celebrated for his collegiate success and brief professional stint.
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Kenny "Jet" Smith and Kareem Reed: Acknowledged for their contributions to New York's basketball scene.
"Let's not forget him. With all of that being said, still gotta mention Mark Jackson." – Stephen A. Smith [12:56]
Concluding Thoughts
Stephen A. Smith wraps up the episode by reiterating the significance of strategic coaching choices for the Knicks' future success. He emphasizes the importance of aligning the right coach with the team's vision and player dynamics, while also paying homage to New York's storied basketball history.
"Ty Lue, both under contract. Teams ain't letting them out their deals... Mark Jackson... Mike Malone... Rick Brunson." – Stephen A. Smith [13:56]
Smith's passionate discussion underscores the complex interplay between team management, coaching talent, and player development, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the current state and future prospects of the New York Knicks.
Final Notes
This episode offers a comprehensive exploration of the New York Knicks' recent coaching changes, potential replacements, and the rich legacy of point guards in New York basketball. Stephen A. Smith, along with guest Jalen Rose, provides thoughtful analysis and engages in spirited debate, making it a must-listen for fans interested in the strategic and historical aspects of the game.