The Knicks have lost Tom Thibodeau’s top deputy, according to reports.
According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, the New York Knicks have lost Johnnie Bryant, Tom Thibodeau’s senior deputy, to a league opponent.
“New York Knicks [associate head coach] Johnnie Bryant has agreed to become associate head coach with the Cleveland Cavaliers, sources told ESPN. Bryant will join Kenny Atkinson’s new staff after four seasons with the Knicks and six with the Utah Jazz,” Wojnarowski said on July 6 on X, formerly Twitter.
Bryant interviewed for the Cavaliers’ coaching position. However, Atkinson’s expertise as a former head coach of the Brooklyn Nets and a key member of Steve Kerr’s coaching staff with the Golden State Warriors over the last three seasons won over.
Johnnie Bryant and Donovan Mitchell Reunion
Bryant’s lateral move reunites him with Donovan Mitchell, who signed an extension with the Cavaliers this summer.
Mitchell agreed to a three-year agreement worth $150.3 million with a player option for the 2027-28 season, according to Wojnarowski on July 2.
Bryant and Mitchell developed a strong friendship in Utah.
Bryant began his NBA coaching career as a player development coach for the Utah Jazz in 2012. He took Mitchell under his wing from the five-time NBA All-Star guard’s debut season until he moved to New York.
Bryant’s playing development was attributed to Gordon Hayward and later Mitchell’s ascension to stardom in Utah.
When Bryant departed Utah to become the Knicks’ assistant head coach, Mitchell was among the first to publicly congratulate him.
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