SAN ANTONIO — Mike Brown, despite never clinching a championship as a head coach, has seen some significant court time over the years. Until recently, he hadn’t led a playoff series victory since 2012.
However, he was part of two legendary teams, snagging a ring with the Tim Duncan-led Spurs and three with the Stephen Curry-led Warriors. Those experiences are attached to a roster of players who helped elevate the franchise’s status.
“I feel fortunate and blessed to be part of such an incredible coaching staff, surrounded by greats like Steve Kerr and Gregg Popovich,” Brown shared earlier in the playoffs. “Working with them, you learn to engage players, and it helps everyone get acclimated to each other, not just the bench but the entire team.”
Brown’s emphasis on utilizing reserves marks a noticeable shift from what Tom Thibodeau implemented during his tenure.
Now, as the Knicks prepare for Game 5 in the NBA Finals, the stakes are high. They’re aiming for their first title since 1973, but who will step up?
In Game 4, Mitchell Robinson struggled, hitting just 1-of-5 attempts at the rim and finishing with a dismal 30.8 percent from the free-throw line. Landry Shamet has been similarly disappointing, going 1-of-11 in his last two games, although he holds the record for the best eight-game playoff 3-point shooting percentage at 67.6 percent. Meanwhile, Jordan Clarkson scored 10 points in one outing, but only managed two in the rest. As for Miles McBride, whose “Deuuuuuuuce” chants from fans continue to fall flat, he’s just 4-of-20 in the series, averaging a mere 2.8 points.
“I’m going to keep my confidence up because I know I bring something valuable to the team,” McBride stated. “I’m not worried about making shots… I believe everyone here can contribute, from No. 1 to No. 15. We uplift each other; it’s how we operate. A team like this can achieve a lot.”
Jose Alvarado exemplified this philosophy, contributing eight points, three assists, and two rebounds in the critical final stretch of a pivotal Game 4 victory.
But as they look ahead, the question remains: who will Brown rely on next?
“This bench really is deep, and Coach trusts us all,” Alvarado noted. “Some days it’s my turn, and other times, it’s someone else’s. These are the moments we wait for.”
