KNICKS NAME MIKE D’ANTONI HEAD COACH
Veteran coach brings impressive winning resume to New York

For the complete press conference transcript click here.

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NEW YORK, May 13, 2008 – New York Knickerbockers President of Basketball Operations Donnie Walsh announced yesterday that Mike D’Antoni has been named the 24th head coach in the franchise’s 62-year history. Per team policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

“After thorough discussions with several impressive candidates, it was clear that Mike D’Antoni is the right coach to lead the New York Knicks,” Walsh said. “Mike has established himself as one of the top coaches in our game and his expertise will be key as we work towards our goal of bringing winning basketball back to New York.”

D’Antoni has compiled a .608 winning percentage (267-172) in six seasons as an NBA head coach with the Phoenix Suns and Denver Nuggets. Named NBA Coach of the Year in 2004-05, D’Antoni has guided the Suns to 54 or more wins in each of the last four seasons while earning a reputation as one of the top offensive minds in the game. The Mullens, WV native brings over three decades of professional basketball experience to New York as a player, coach, front office executive and scout in the NBA, ABA and the Italian League.

“It is an honor to be named head coach of the New York Knicks, one of the most storied franchises in all of sports,” D’Antoni said. “I am thankful to Donnie for this opportunity and I look forward to the challenge of producing a winner for New York.”

Source: NY Knicks Insiders and Madison Square Garden

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