The New York Knicks continue to interview candidates for their vacancy as head coach, some of whom have been introduced for second interviews. On Friday, former Knicks coach Mike Woodson had his second interview with the club based on SportsNet New York’s NBA insider Ian Begley, who also reported that a final coaching rental decision is expected by 31 July.
Woodson was just one of several candidates who reportedly have or will interview for the position this week. Others include the team’s current interim coach, Mike Miller, Golden State assistant and former LA Lakers chief and Cleveland Cavaliers Mike Brown, former Brooklyn Nets coach Kenny Atkinson, Chicago Bulls assistant Chris Fleming and former Bulls coach and Minnesota Timberwolves Tom Thibodeau.
Thibodeau – who has long been considered the favorite to get the job – was formally interviewed on Thursday, according to a tweet from Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN.
Although Woodson is one of the oldest candidates in office at the age of 62 and has compiled only three winning seasons in eight full years as head coach, he has the distinction of being the last coach to lead New York to a winning campaign, such as as well as a win in the playoff series. During the 2012-13 season, he led the team to a 54-28 record and a first-round win over Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett and the Boston Celtics.
Woodson had become the team’s interim coach the previous season following Mike D’Antoni’s resignation. After losing the provisional label, he stayed with the Knicks throughout the 2013-14 season and made a 109-79 record during his run in New York. Speaking to Begley about the current opening, Woodson has touted his previous track record with the Knicks.