"Once a Knick, Always a Knick": Mike Woodson Celebrates New York's Resurgence and Backs Owner James Dolan
Former New York Knicks head coach and player Mike Woodson has made it clear that he harbors no resentment regarding his former franchise’s recent success. Speaking with TMZ Sports, Woodson expressed genuine excitement for the team’s current championship aspirations, dismissing any notions that watching the Knicks thrive from afar is a bittersweet experience. Emphasizing a deep-seated loyalty to the organization, Woodson declared, "once a Knick, always a Knick," signaling his unwavering support for the team's quest to bring an NBA Larry O'Brien Trophy back to Madison Square Garden.
Woodson’s connection to the Knicks spans several decades and multiple eras. Originally drafted by New York as the 12th overall pick in the 1980 NBA Draft, he returned to the franchise decades later to patrol the sidelines. As head coach from 2012 to 2014, Woodson guided the team to a memorable 54-28 record and an Atlantic Division title during the 2012–13 season—a high-water mark for the franchise that stood for over a decade. He later returned to the franchise as an assistant coach under Tom Thibodeau during the 2020–21 season before departing to lead his alma mater, the Indiana Hoosiers. Given this extensive history, Woodson remains deeply woven into the modern fabric of New York basketball.
A notable aspect of Woodson's remarks was his public support for polarizing Knicks owner James Dolan. While Dolan has frequently been a lightning rod for fan and media criticism over his tenure, Woodson voiced sincere happiness for the long-time owner. Woodson's positive relationship with Dolan has endured past his coaching tenures in New York, with the veteran coach praising Dolan’s commitment to the franchise and expressing a desire to see the owner finally rewarded with a championship. According to Woodson, the dedication of the front office and the loyalty of the Madison Square Garden faithful deserve the ultimate sports payoff.
The Knicks' current resurgence, led by All-Star guard Jalen Brunson and architected by Thibodeau, has revitalized basketball in New York City. Having transitioned the team from a struggling lottery franchise into a perennial Eastern Conference powerhouse, the current roster has drawn praise from NBA alumni league-wide. For Woodson, witnessing this evolution is a source of pride rather than envy, reinforcing his belief that the foundation laid during his various tenures has culminated in a sustainable, championship-caliber culture of winning.