Metta World Peace Doubles Down on Knicks Head Coach Ambitions After Thibodeau Firing

The New York Knicks were the focus of attention last week when they parted ways with head coach Tom Thibodeau. Despite the usual list of recycled coaching candidates, one name has emerged from the heart of New York City with an unapologetic pitch and deep-rooted passion. Metta World Peace, a former NBA champion from Queensbridge, is well prepared and well-built for the role. He’s not waiting for permission to say it.

“We’re Talking Hoops—and Mostly Metta”

Metta World Peace’s emotional and candid response to his brother Daniel Artest’s recent Twitter Spaces conversation. “We’re talking hoops—and mostly about Metta World Peace, the future head coach of the New York Knicks… Hopefully, that’s not a fact, but hey, we’re speaking it into existence.”

This was not a publicity stunt. The job application was made public. One rooted in history, loyalty, and an authentic basketball IQ that few can match.

“I was on vacation when Coach Thibs got fired, and people started tagging me left and right—saying Metta should get the job. And honestly, I couldn’t agree more.”

“I’ve Got New York in My Veins”

World Peace didn’t just grow up in New York; he lived the dream of every city kid. He has become one of NYC’s most admired basketball players, having started out dominating La Salle Academy’s courts and then becoming a first-round NBA draft pick.

“Back in the day, every basketball fan in NYC wanted me to be drafted No. 15. That’s love you never forget.”

And that dream? Still alive. “I’ve always wanted to be a Knick. Even if fans don’t approve, I’ve dreamed of winning a title for this city.”

No Agents. No Politics. Just Basketball

Metta is a unique figure in an industry that agents and insider circles dominate.

“I don’t have an agent. I have my own company. I don’t play the political game. I just coach.”

During Thibodeau’s dismissal, coaching hopefuls scurried through agencies and media relationships. Metta? He took to Twitter. On Thursday, he tweeted:

“Metta is the right guy for the @nyknicks head coach position. I have experience. I have no agent. I’m NYC tested. I’ve wanted this since ’99. Same recycled names. Same narratives. Respectfully, it’s time for non-biased Metta.”

According to a narrative, Metta’s role was as a lockdown defender. He shattered that myth.

“If defense is the only reason you know me, then how did I average 24 before the suspension? How did I average 20 with the Kings, and 25 in the playoffs against the Lakers? I play both ends of the floor. I’ve always had a coach’s eye.”

During their Indiana days, Rick Carlisle, an NBA veteran, confirmed it.

“Ron, you’re gonna be a great coach one day.”

Carlisle’s words ignited Metta’s fire, and he’s been preparing ever since.

A Decade of Coaching Behind the Scenes

Metta World Peace has been actively coaching for nearly a decade, and most people aren’t aware of it. Post-retirement, he mentored young Lakers such as D’Angelo Russell, Julius Randle, Brandon Ingram, Jordan Clarkson, and Ivica Zubac. He had the opportunity to work in the G League and even coach Division II women’s basketball at Cal State LA.

“Cal State LA hadn’t been to the NCAA Tournament in 30 years. We made it two years in a row. That’s called patience and development. I was at the front of the bench. That’s what coaching is.”

While coaching the Palisades, he led them to two championships and mentored overlooked players at 3 a.m. gym sessions. Metta brings this grind.

Why the Knicks? Why Now?

“I’m not even talking to the front office yet. I just want it. I put it on social. I work with the Knicks’ community division. I’m around. I show up to camps, sign autographs, represent. And I’m always thinking basketball. Offense. Defense. Both sides of the floor.”

There’s no gimmick here. For Metta, this is personal. “I want this job for real. Not to look cool. I’m preparing every day. And I’ve got a point to prove.”

No Hidden Agenda. Just Transparent Passion

Too many assistants are campaigning for head positions behind closed doors. Metta? He’s saying it up front.

“I’m not going to smile in your face and then try to steal your job. I’m telling you now: I want to be a head coach. You know what’s on my mind. I don’t do podcasts trashing coaches. I respect the game. I respect the process. But I’m here now.”

He adds: “I don’t even care if it’s the Knicks, Indiana, the Lakers, Sacramento, St. John’s, UCLA, USC—my passion is pure. But the Knicks? That’s home. That’s destiny.”

A True Basketball Mind

Metta learned the triangle offense within a month. He could analyze plays before they happened. He coached rookies before becoming an official coach. He possesses a combination of cerebral, gritty, and experience.

“I’ve been through NBA wars. I’ve seen every kind of player, every kind of locker room. I bring that to coaching. Not just on paper. In real life.”

Coming In Hot—With Purpose

“At some point, you’re going to have to see me. As a peer. On the same sideline. I’m not begging. I’m building. I’m putting in the work.”

Metta has been passed over. He was unable to secure a G League job at the last moment. College offers have fallen through for him. He persevered. He doubled down on it.

“You’ll have to compete against me one day. And when we win, I want people to recognize that it wasn’t luck—it was earned.”

The City Deserves More Than Clickbait

“Y’all don’t even want the Knicks to win. It’s all clickbait. Same recycled names. Show me a coach who loves the city like I do. Who puts in the work like I do. No politics. Just basketball.”

The city is searching for a leader representing its toughness, heart, and hunger. Metta World Peace is not simply campaigning—he is commanding a shot at history.

“Let’s do it, baby. It’s time.”