Wed Jun 25 22:20:00 UTC 2025: **Knicks Eye Pelicans Assistant Borrego in Coaching Search**

**New York, NY** – The New York Knicks have officially requested and received permission from the New Orleans Pelicans to interview assistant coach James Borrego for their open head coaching position, sources tell The Athletic. Borrego joins a growing list of candidates vying for the job, including former head coaches Mike Brown (Sacramento Kings) and Taylor Jenkins (Memphis Grizzlies), as well as Minnesota Timberwolves assistant Micah Nori.

Borrego brings a wealth of experience to the table, having served as the head coach of the Charlotte Hornets from 2018 to 2022 and as an interim coach for the Orlando Magic in 2014-15. He also has deep roots in the San Antonio Spurs organization, having worked under Gregg Popovich during their championship dynasty. He is known for his offensive-minded approach, a strategy that could potentially unlock the full potential of Knicks stars Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns, both All-NBA selections this past season.

The Knicks have been actively pursuing a new head coach since the end of the season. They have already interviewed Jenkins, Brown, and Nori, and have reportedly reached out to several other teams seeking permission to interview their head coaches. However, requests to speak with Billy Donovan (Chicago Bulls), Ime Udoka (Houston Rockets), Chris Finch (Minnesota Timberwolves), Quin Snyder (Atlanta Hawks), and Jason Kidd (Dallas Mavericks) were all denied, though there are unconfirmed reports that the Mavericks are rethinking their position on Kidd.

Adding an interesting layer to the Borrego situation is his representation by CAA, the agency formerly led by Knicks President Leon Rose, which also represents coaching candidate Taylor Jenkins.

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