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What Ultimate Praise Did Tom Thibodeau Receive?

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Lance Roberson | Last updated Dec 18, 2024 7:49 PM ET

New York Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau has the reputation of being an old-school, no-nonsense, back-breaking coach. With his deadpan look, balding hair, and bulldog stature, he appears to be a coach players wouldn't endorse. However, contrary to perception, a podcast star claimed Thibodeau as his favorite coach.

Jeff Teague played for the Minnesota Timberwolves for two seasons. During his tenure in Minnesota, he played with Thibodeau, which included the team's first playoff appearance since 2004. According to the Club 520 podcast co-host, his favorite coach is Thibodeau.

Teague explained why he favors Thibodeau.

"Thibs got a way of letting you be you," Teague said. Everybody thinks Thibs this hard coach…He really don't say (expletive)…You could shoot any time…He let you be a basketball player. Obviously, he's gonna call plays for his best players…but…He was so cool."

Thibodeau coached for 33 seasons, taking only one break after his stint with the Timberwolves before he joined the Knicks.

"He loved basketball more than anyone I ever met," Teague said.

The 33 years coaching the NBA indicate Thibodeau can't get enough of the league, which supports Teague's previously mentioned statement. Furthermore, his "cool" nature drew the raspy-voiced coach to Teague, which alludes to how the current players perceive Thibodeau.

Years later, players like Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns appreciate Thibodeau's unique personality. More importantly, they understand and respect his basketball mind.

For Towns to coach since 1989 but still have the ear of current players speaks volumes about his adaptability and admiration of younger generations. Thibodeau is more approachable than his look assumes.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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