The Knicks have found their leader — and maybe soon, their superstar.

After an intense, month-long search that included denied interview requests for five active NBA head coaches and multiple rounds of evaluations, New York is expected to finalize a deal with Mike Brown to become the franchise’s next head coach, sources tell ESPN.

Brown, a two-time NBA Coach of the Year, is no stranger to high expectations. He was at the helm of the NBA’s best-rated offense in 2022–23 with the Sacramento Kings, where he unlocked De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis into a dynamic two-man game. Before that, he served as an elite assistant on championship staffs in Golden State (under Steve Kerr) and San Antonio (under Gregg Popovich) — collecting four championship rings as a lead strategist and mentor.

He’s coached LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, Steph Curry, Tim Duncan, and now… could it be Giannis Antetokounmpo?

Rumors around the league suggest New York is preparing assets for a potential trade pursuit of Giannis, especially with the Bucks undergoing a full roster reshaping — parting ways with Khris Middleton, Jrue Holiday, and now Damian Lillard. The Knicks have the picks. They have the young talent. They have the market. And now, they have a respected, championship-tested head coach.

This hire is a culture bet. Brown brings structure, communication, and offensive versatility — three things the Knicks have lacked since their last serious playoff run. With Jalen Brunson and Julius Randle entering their primes, the timeline to win is now.

Expectations are sky-high. Madison Square Garden is buzzing. And if the Knicks can somehow add the Greek Freak to the mix, New York might finally have its title window cracked wide open.