The New York Knicks continue to build their coaching staff following Mike Brown’s employment as head coach.
The organization is reportedly authorized to interview potential staff positions for Minnesota Timber Wolves assistant coach Pablo Prigioni.
Prigioni brings a unique familiarity to the franchise that played for the Knicks from 2012 to 2015. The Argentine security guard made NBA history by becoming the oldest rookie at the age of 35 when he joined the Knicks.
Despite his short playing tenure, Prisioni developed a strong connection with his fanbase through his intelligent play and defensive instincts.
His return creates excitement among supporters who remember his contributions in those seasons.
This timing proves to be strategic given the recent experience of Prigioni, who leads the town of Karl Anthony in Minnesota.
Many Knicks fans hope that the town can achieve greater consistency and that Prisgioni’s expertise is valuable to maximize the centre’s potential.
Prigioni has been Minnesota’s offensive coordinator since 2019 and has worked directly with the town throughout that period.
His understanding of the town’s pros and cons could benefit the Knicks’ efforts to optimize the production and defensive aspects of the Star Center.
Coaching connections go beyond player development. Gersson Rosas, who originally hired Prigioni in Minnesota, now works as an executive at Knicks, creating an organizational familiarity that can smooth the transition.
Fans responded actively to potential discussions of the reunion on social media.
“Pablo’s return is going to heat up the knee story from those ants,” writes one supporter, referring to the interest of Anthony Edwards, who is capable of joining the former coach.
Prigioni’s playing career was characterized by an exceptional court vision and defensive perception that impressed New York fans.
His ability to create assists to match the watch and generate steel through smart positioning has made him a fan favorite despite his limited athletics.
“Everyone will steal a sleazy inbound before you know it,” another fan wrote, referring to Prisioni’s signature defensive play that could affect current roster development.
“Elite basketball mind, acclaimed by player devers and loved in New York,” one fan posted about potential employment.
Another fan highlighted the recent trends in reunions throughout the league, saying, “Dame went home. CP3 went home. We’re bringing the goats home.”
The Prizioni pursuit represents an alternative approach after the Knicks’ failed attempt to hire Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch.
Instead of targeting top Minnesota coaching figures, New York is trying to acquire organizational knowledge through assistants.
This strategy could provide insight into how Minnesota players are developed and the attacking system that will help the town improve certain aspects of his game.
And Prisioni’s dual experience as a former player and current coach creates unique qualifications to help the Knicks maximize the structure of their current roster.