The New York Knicks’ ownership is pushing back against reports suggesting that the NBA might investigate the promotion of Rick Brunson to a key assistant coaching position. This season, Brunson, the father of star point guard Jalen Brunson, has been elevated to one of the top assistant roles alongside head coach Tom Thibodeau. The move has sparked rumors of an NBA inquiry, which the Knicks’ parent company, Madison Square Garden (MSG) Sports, strongly refutes.
In a statement issued by MSG Sports, the company explained the reasoning behind Rick Brunson’s promotion. “Rick Brunson took Johnnie Bryant’s place and assumed the same salary as Bryant,” the statement read. It went on to emphasize the team’s support for the coach, adding, “It’s offensive that anyone would claim Rick didn’t deserve the promotion. Rick has done a tremendous job and will continue to do so.” The Knicks further characterized the investigation rumors as “harassment” and suggested the focus was part of a broader opposition to the team’s stance on certain NBA matters.
The Background of the Controversy
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The promotion of Rick Brunson has raised eyebrows, with some online rumors linking it to Jalen Brunson’s decision to take a pay cut during the offseason. Jalen signed a long-term deal with the Knicks worth four years and $156 million, a contract believed to reflect a “hometown discount” in order to keep him with the team. This raised suspicions that Rick’s promotion might have been an internal gesture tied to his son’s financial commitment to the Knicks.
Johnnie Bryant, the assistant coach whose position Rick took, left the Knicks to join the Cleveland Cavaliers in a similar role. As a result, Rick Brunson was promoted to a more prominent spot in the coaching staff.
Rick Brunson’s Background and Role with the Knicks
Rick Brunson has an extensive coaching career spanning 15 years, having worked with four NBA teams before joining the Knicks in 2022. His coaching experience dates back to a successful playing career that lasted nine years in the league. For the past two years, Rick had been serving in a behind-the-scenes role before his promotion this season.
His new position has already sparked controversy, most notably after an altercation with former Knicks player Donte DiVincenzo. During a game this season, Brunson was seen arguing with DiVincenzo, who had been traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves earlier in the offseason. The heated exchange ended with Knicks star Mikal Bridges stepping in to separate the two. Despite the conflict, the Knicks have expressed full confidence in Rick’s abilities and value his contributions to the team.
