Tom Thibodeau
Defensive mastermind and former Timberwolves head coach (2016–2019).
Thomas Joseph Thibodeau Jr. (born January 17, 1958), nicknamed "Thibs", is an American basketball coach who was most recently the head coach for the New York Knicks of the National Basketball Association (NBA). He served as an assistant coach for the United States men's national team from 2013 to 2016, and helped them win a gold medal at the 2016 Olympic Games.
Quick Facts
- Tenure
- 2016–2019
Lore & Background
Thibodeau was head coach of the Minnesota Timberwolves from 2016 to 2019. He was released in January 2019, ending a tenure of about three years. The Timberwolves made their first playoff appearance in 14 years in his second season.
Reader's Guide
Thibodeau is renowned as a defensive specialist with significant regular season success, though he has also drawn criticism for playing his starters heavy minutes and his perceived stubbornness.
Did You Know?
- Thibodeau was an assistant coach for the Minnesota Timberwolves from 1989 to 1991, before later becoming their head coach from 2016 to 2019.
- He won the NBA Coach of the Year award in 2011 after leading the Chicago Bulls to a 62-win season.
- Thibodeau helped the Boston Celtics win the 2008 NBA Finals as an associate head coach.
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