The New York Knicks have confirmed the hiring of Mike Brown as the team’s new head coach. Brown, a two-time NBA Coach of the Year, replaces Tom Thibodeau, who was fired by the Knicks last month after guiding the franchise to its deepest playoff run in 25 years.

The Knicks believe that Brown is the player who can help them take the next step and truly contend for a championship next season. They'll also be in a prime position to take advantage of a weaker Eastern Conference, with the Boston Celtics missing Jayson Tatum and the Pacers missing Tyrese Haliburton.

Mike Brown, who previously coached the Kings, Cavs and Lakers, takes over in New York after Tom Thibodeau's exit.