In a surprising turn of events, former Villanova coach Jay Wright has reportedly declined the opportunity to be considered for the head coaching vacancy with the New York Knicks. Despite his close relationship with Knicks president Leon Rose and ties to the organization through former players like Mikal Bridges, Josh Hart, and Jalen Brunson, Wright has chosen to remain retired and focus on his new role as a basketball analyst for CBS and TNT. The 63-year-old mentor spent over two decades at Villanova before stepping away in 2022.
Following the unexpected dismissal of Tom Thibodeau, who guided the Knicks to the Eastern Conference finals for the first time in 25 years, the franchise is now exploring other coaching options. While Wright won't be in the mix, reports suggest that the Knicks are considering Dallas Mavericks coach Jason Kidd, among other candidates, to fill the vacant head coaching position. With speculation swirling and changes on the horizon, the NBA world eagerly awaits to see who will ultimately take the reins and lead the Knicks into the future.