BREAKING NEWS: Former New York Knicks National Basketball Head Coach Jeff Van Gundy whom involved in media, including launching his own podcast, sent a Shocking message to New York Knicks head coach Mike Brown and the Entire New York Knicks Team concerning his…see more

August 2, 2025 – New York, NY

In a moment that has quickly gone viral across the basketball world, former New York Knicks head coach and longtime NBA analyst Jeff Van Gundy has sent a stunning and passionate message to current Knicks head coach Mike Brown and the entire Knicks organization — and it’s turning heads throughout the league.

The message was delivered during the latest episode of Van Gundy’s recently launched podcast, “The Hardwood Truth,” where he opened with a direct and emotional segment aimed squarely at his former team.

“This isn’t just about X’s and O’s,” Van Gundy said. “This is about identity. And right now, the Knicks have a chance to build something bigger than a playoff run. But only if they stop playing safe.”

Van Gundy’s Challenge to Mike Brown

Van Gundy, who coached the Knicks from 1996 to 2001 — including a trip to the 1999 NBA Finals — had high praise for the current Knicks squad but urged Mike Brown to “lean into the grit and soul of New York basketball.”

“Mike, you’re a damn good coach — no question. But this city doesn’t care about finesse. They care about fire. The Knicks need to defend like their legacy depends on it — because it does.”

He went on to say that if the team truly wants to contend for a championship, they must “play with an edge,” “trust their toughness,” and “own every inch of MSG like it’s sacred ground.”

Surprising Support for Jalen Brunson and Jimmy Butler

Van Gundy also praised the leadership core of Jalen Brunson and Jimmy Butler, calling them the “perfect mental anchors for a true New York title run.”

“Brunson’s got the heart. Butler’s got the scars. If those two are locked in — and if Mike lets them lead like dogs — this team can make real noise.”

NBA Community Reacts

The passionate address has been shared across social media, with thousands of fans and analysts weighing in:

“Van Gundy just lit a fire under the Knicks. This is the type of accountability New York thrives on.” – @RealNBAInsider

“Love or hate him, JVG still gets New York basketball.” – @KnicksNation

Even some players reportedly listened to the clip before practice this morning, with one Knicks staffer calling it “the kind of message that hits different coming from someone who’s been through the war here.”

What’s Next?

Jeff Van Gundy has not ruled out a full-time return to the NBA in a front-office or advisory capacity, but for now, he remains focused on his media work and podcast, which debuted at #1 on Apple’s “Sports Podcasts” chart this week.

A Knicks spokesperson said Head Coach Mike Brown is expected to respond to Van Gundy’s comments after the team’s next media availability.

As the Knicks prepare for one of the most anticipated seasons in recent franchise history, Van Gundy’s message may have arrived at just the right time — a bold reminder of what it truly means to wear blue and orange in the world’s most iconic arena.

Stay tuned for more updates from Madison Square Garden.