The New York Knicks on Tuesday appointed Kentucky Wildcats associate Kenny Payne as the new assistant coach of the side, as confirmed by Adrian Wojnarowski of the ESPN.
The 53-year-old will now be joining the head coach Tom Thibodeau as the first official addition to the side after the appointment of the new head coach.
“I’m thrilled that Kenny has joined my staff as an assistant coach. He has an outstanding ability to forge relationships with players and improve their skills,” Thibodeau said in a statement.
ESPN story on Knicks hiring Kentucky's Kenny Payne as an assistant on Tom Thibodeau's coaching staff. https://t.co/YSkUTINsdE
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) August 11, 2020
“He knows what it takes to win and has learned from one of the best coaches there is in John Calipari. Kenny will be a tremendous addition to our organization.” the statement further stated.
Payne has immense experience of over 10 years as an assistant coach of the Kentucky Wildcats. Besides, he has had a good history with the Knicks management, especially with President Leon Rose and Senior VP William Wesley.
“I want to thank John Calipari, Eli Capilouto (University of Kentucky president), Mitch Barnhart (athletic director) and the University of Kentucky for allowing me to be a part of a special program for the last 10 years that truly epitomizes winning basketball. I am a better coach and leader of young men today because of my time in Lexington under the legendary Coach Cal,” Payne said.
Payne also played four seasons in the NBA with the Philadelphia 76ers between 1989-1993 during his playing years.
