BREAKING NEWS: New York Knicks American professional basketball Small forward Anton Watson Reacts in Shock to Crushing NBA Report from Former Head Coach Tom Thibodeau Concerning his…… see more

BREAKING NEWS: Knicks Forward Anton Watson Reacts in Shock to Crushing Report from Former Head Coach Tom Thibodeau

New York, NY — July 29, 2025

Tension is rising in Madison Square Garden after New York Knicks small forward Anton Watson was blindsided by a crushing NBA report released by former Knicks Head Coach Tom Thibodeau, sparking immediate reaction across the league.

According to sources close to the situation, the report — which surfaced late Monday evening — includes sharp criticism of player development decisions, locker room culture, and unnamed “inconsistencies in professionalism” during Thibodeau’s final season with the team. Though no players were directly named in the initial executive summary, insiders confirm that Watson was directly referenced in the full report — described as “underprepared for high-pressure moments” and “struggling to adapt to system-level responsibilities.”

The reaction from the 6’8” forward was swift and emotional.

“I was shocked — not just by what was said, but by who it came from,” Watson told reporters outside the Knicks practice facility Tuesday morning. “I’ve always respected Coach Thibs. Hearing this now, after all this time, feels personal.”

Watson, who joined the Knicks as a late first-round draft pick and has been praised for his defensive potential and work ethic, said he had no prior indication of dissatisfaction from Thibodeau during the season. Teammates reportedly rallied around him following the leak.

“Anton’s one of the hardest-working guys in the room,” said point guard Jalen Brunson. “Whatever happened in the past, we’re moving forward together.”

The report, which is believed to have been submitted to the Knicks’ front office as part of an internal evaluation after Thibodeau’s departure in 2024, was never intended to be made public. However, its recent leak — now confirmed by league insiders — has reignited conversations about the often turbulent final months of Thibodeau’s tenure.

The Knicks organization has not yet officially commented on the matter. Current Head Coach Jamahl Mosley was asked about the situation during a pregame media availability and kept his response brief:

“We support Anton. He’s part of this team’s future, and that’s what we’re focused on.”

As the Knicks continue their playoff push, this latest development adds emotional weight to Watson’s journey — and motivation.

“All I can say now is, watch me work,” Watson concluded.