NBA Coaching Shakeup 2025: What’s Next for Mike Brown and the New Hires?
Explore the latest NBA coaching changes for the 2025 season, including Mike Brown's move to the Knicks and the challenges ahead for new hires.

The 2025 NBA coaching carousel has finally come to a halt, with several high-profile changes shaking up the league. Among the most notable moves is Mike Brown's appointment as the head coach of the New York Knicks, replacing the recently fired Tom Thibodeau. Brown, a two-time Coach of the Year, steps into a role with immense pressure and expectations, as the Knicks aim to end their decades-long championship drought.
New York Knicks: A New Era Under Mike Brown
Brown inherits a roster brimming with talent, including All-NBA players Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns, alongside versatile wings like OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges. The Knicks also boast a strong bench with Mitchell Robinson and Miles McBride. However, despite the star power, the team struggled in key areas last season, particularly in 3-point attempts and pace. Brown’s challenge will be to revamp the team’s offensive strategy while maintaining a solid defense.
Phoenix Suns: Jordan Ott Takes the Helm
The Phoenix Suns have also made a significant change, hiring Jordan Ott as their new head coach. Ott, previously an assistant with the Cleveland Cavaliers, brings a reputation for strong offensive and defensive creativity. The Suns, led by Devin Booker and a young star in Jalen Green, are looking to stabilize after a tumultuous period that saw them part ways with Mike Budenholzer.
Denver Nuggets: David Adelman’s Promotion
In Denver, David Adelman has been promoted to head coach after serving as interim following Michael Malone’s dismissal. Adelman, son of Hall of Famer Rick Adelman, led the Nuggets to a Game 7 against the Oklahoma City Thunder in the playoffs. With a roster featuring MVP candidate Nikola Jokic, Adelman’s task is to maximize the team’s championship potential.
San Antonio Spurs: Mitch Johnson’s New Role
The San Antonio Spurs have turned to Mitch Johnson as their new head coach, following Gregg Popovich’s transition to a front-office role. Johnson, who served as acting coach during Popovich’s absence, inherits a young and exciting core led by Victor Wembanyama and Stephon Castle. The Spurs’ future looks bright, but Johnson will need to navigate the challenges of a small market and high expectations.
Memphis Grizzlies: Tuomas Iisalo’s Historic Appointment
Memphis has made history by appointing Tuomas Iisalo as their head coach, making him the first Finnish-born coach in NBA history. Iisalo takes over a team with a promising young core, including Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. The Grizzlies are looking to build on their recent success and make a deeper playoff run in the coming seasons.
Sacramento Kings: Doug Christie’s Interim Success
In Sacramento, Doug Christie has been named the permanent head coach after a successful interim stint. Christie, a former player for the Kings, has brought stability to a team that has struggled with consistency over the years. With a roster featuring Domantas Sabonis and DeMar DeRozan, Christie aims to lead the Kings back to playoff contention.
As the 2025 NBA season approaches, these coaching changes will undoubtedly shape the league’s landscape. Each new hire faces unique challenges, but all share the common goal of leading their teams to success.