The New York Knicks are finalizing the addition of Saint Joseph’s head coach Billy Lange to their coaching staff, according to ESPN’s Pete Thamel. The move comes after the organization hired Mike Brown as head coach to replace Tom Thibodeau.
Lange, 53, was preparing for his seventh season at Saint Joseph’s before the Knicks targeted him for an assistant role. His tenure with the Hawks included the development of multiple all-conference players in the Atlantic 10.
Prior to his college head coaching run, Lange spent six years as an assistant with the Philadelphia 76ers under Brett Brown, gaining experience in player development and game preparation at the NBA level.
The Knicks’ decision to add Lange reflects a continued emphasis on surrounding Mike Brown with seasoned assistants who bring both NBA and college experience. The staff already includes names like Maurice Cheeks, Rick Brunson, and Mark Bryant.
New York enters the 2025–26 season with significant expectations after overhauling its roster. The front office added veterans such as Jordan Clarkson and Guerschon Yabusele to strengthen its rotation.
The organization also made draft-day moves, selecting Mohamed Diawara with the 51st pick after trading rights to Kobe Sanders. Young players like Diawara and Pacôme Dadiet are expected to benefit from a staff with a strong player development background.
Lange’s experience working with Villanova products at Saint Joseph’s could prove valuable on a roster featuring Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart, and Mikal Bridges. His defensive coaching reputation may also support Brown’s efforts to establish a tougher identity.
