Mike Brown appreciates the legacy that comes with being head coach of the New York Knicks.
The New York Knicks are in rare territory when it comes to NBA franchises. Along with the Los Angeles Lakers, Boston Celtics and Chicago Bulls, the Knicks are are one of the oldest and most iconic NBA teams and they play every home game in possibly the most iconic stadium: Madison Square Garden.
There's a heavy weight that comes with wearing the New York orange and blue and playing in such a storied arena. The history and legacy stares down on you and the faith, hope and ire in equal measure of Knicks fans is a special kind of energy, something that Josh Hart acknowledged ahead of the playoffs.
Knicks head coach Mike Brown has had plenty of experience coaching in the NBA and he's spent time with a a handful of historic and successful franchises.
New York Knicks guard Miles McBride (2) reacts after making a three point basket during the second half of the 2026 NBA Playoffs against the Atlanta Hawks at Madison Square Garden. Vincent Carchietta-Imagn ImagesThat career includes serving as the head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers and the Cleveland Cavaliers in the infancy of LeBron James' career and serving as an assistant coach during the height of the Golden State Warriors' dynasty.
The Energy of MSG
But, there's nothing like coaching the New York Knicks and working in Madison Square Garden. It's a privilege that Brown often reminds himself and when it comes to the playoffs, that legacy and energy steps up to another level.
New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) dribbles as Atlanta Hawks forward Jonathan Kuminga (0) and forward Mouhamed Gueye (18) defends during the first half of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Madison Square Garden. Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images"It always feels special walking into MSG. I pinch myself every time I walk in," Brown said (via SNY). "You can feel the energy of the fans. You can feel the energy of the building. You can feel the energy of the fans even outside. So, its definitely different."
The Knicks are just one game into the first round of the NBA playoffs, but so far so good. They took down the Atlanta Hawks 113-102 on the back of a total effort from the entire roster, but there's still a long road to go.
Creating A Winning History
Coaching and playing for the Knicks comes with an extra layer of responsibility not just because of the history of the franchise or the expectations of fans, but because of the team's relative lack of historical success.
New York Knicks guard Mikal Bridges (25) celebrates with guard Josh Hart (3) after a basket against the Atlanta Hawks during the first quarter of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Madison Square Garden. Vincent Carchietta-Imagn ImagesDespite being founded in 1946, the Knicks have just two championships to their name, most recently in 1973. Fans, players and coaches alike are aware of how hungry the city is for another championship and what it would mean for there to be a new banner in the hallowed halls of Madison Square Garden.
Brown and the Knicks may have just taken the first step in this season's playoffs, but it's one step closer to making some history of their own.