BREAKING NEWS: former New York Knicks head coach Mike Woodson now the associate head coach of the Sacramento Kings of the National Basketball Association sent a message to new York Knicks head coach Mike Brown concerning….see more

In a move that has sent ripples through the NBA coaching community, former New York Knicks head coach Mike Woodson has officially joined the Sacramento Kings as associate head coach under head coach Jordi Fernández. Woodson, who had been out of an active NBA coaching role since his stint at Indiana University ended in early 2025, now finds himself back in the league — and already stirring headlines.

But what’s caught even more attention is the intriguing message Woodson reportedly sent to current Knicks head coach Mike Brown, just hours after the announcement of his hiring went public.

The content of the message, which has since been confirmed by multiple league sources, included praise, playful banter, and a subtle warning about a possible showdown between the Sacramento Kings and the New York Knicks in the 2026 NBA Playoffs.

Mike Woodson, 67, returns to the NBA sidelines with a wealth of experience. His first head coaching job came in 2004 with the Atlanta Hawks, but it was his time with the New York Knicks from 2012 to 2014 that brought him into the national spotlight. Under Woodson’s leadership, the Knicks reached the second round of the 2013 NBA Playoffs — a peak the franchise had not seen since the days of Jeff Van Gundy and Latrell Sprewell.

“It feels good to be back,” said Woodson during his introductory press conference in Sacramento. “I’ve had some time away, I coached at my alma mater, and now I feel rejuvenated. Coach Fernández is a great mind, and I’m excited to help this team take the next step. But of course, I’ll always have love for the Knicks.”

It was during this media availability that Woodson was asked about Mike Brown, the Knicks’ current head coach. Brown, who led the Knicks to a 50-win season in 2024 and is widely credited with revamping their defense, has his own long-standing NBA résumé. He’s coached LeBron James, De’Aaron Fox, and now rising star RJ Barrett. Woodson smiled at the mention of Brown.

“I sent Mike a message today,” Woodson said. “Just told him — I’m watching. And if the basketball gods are kind, we just might see each other in May or June.”

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### Behind the Message

Though Woodson declined to elaborate on the exact contents of the message, sources close to the situation have revealed that it was more than just friendly banter. The message reportedly read:

*”Mike — Congratulations on all you’ve done in New York. But don’t get too comfortable. The road to the Finals might just go through Sacramento. Be ready.”*

The message, which was described by Knicks insiders as “vintage Woodson — respectful, competitive, and just a little spicy,” has already sparked speculation about a potential bicoastal NBA Finals matchup between the two franchises.

“It’s crazy to think about,” said ESPN analyst Kendrick Perkins. “But hey, with the Knicks back on track and the Kings playing serious basketball out West, it’s not far-fetched anymore.”

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### Kings’ Championship Aspirations Just Got Realer

The Sacramento Kings have steadily built a promising roster around De’Aaron Fox, Domantas Sabonis, and sharpshooter Keegan Murray. After their surprising playoff breakthrough in 2023, they fell short of expectations in 2024, bowing out in the first round. However, with the hiring of Mike Woodson, the team has added a defensive architect known for turning underperforming units into elite-level squads.

“Coach Woodson brings accountability and structure,” said Kings GM Monte McNair. “He’s been where we’re trying to go. This is about leveling up.”

NBA insiders suggest that the Kings made a strategic decision by bringing in Woodson. Fernández is known for his offensive innovation and player development, while Woodson brings a veteran edge and a defensive pedigree the team has lacked since the days of Rick Adelman.

“Having Woodson on the bench is like having a second head coach,” said NBA writer Ramona Shelburne. “He’s calm under pressure and can draw up a stop when it matters most.”

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### Knicks vs. Kings: A Rivalry in the Making?

While the New York Knicks and Sacramento Kings don’t have a historical rivalry, Woodson’s message might just plant the seeds for one. The Knicks, revitalized under Mike Brown and the front-office duo of Leon Rose and William Wesley, now boast a tough, versatile roster with playoff experience. RJ Barrett has blossomed into an All-Star, Jalen Brunson continues to defy expectations, and Mitchell Robinson anchors one of the league’s best interior defenses.

“New York is back,” declared Stephen A. Smith during his morning segment. “But don’t sleep on what’s happening in Sacramento. Mike Woodson is back in the league, and if you think he doesn’t want to prove he’s still got it, you don’t know Mike Woodson.”

Even Knicks head coach Mike Brown responded to the message during a pre-summer league press availability in Las Vegas.

“Woody? Man, I got a lot of respect for that guy. He’s one of the real ones,” Brown said, smiling. “But if we meet in the playoffs, he better bring everything he’s got. Because we’re coming.”

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### League Reactions and Social Media Buzz

NBA Twitter has already had a field day with the news.

One popular tweet read:
*”Mike Woodson plotting revenge against his old squad like it’s a Marvel movie. Knicks vs. Kings Finals? Sign me up.”*

Another joked:
*”Knicks hire Mike Brown. Kings hire Mike Woodson. Next up: Mike D’Antoni to the Hornets? #MikeMadness”*

Players have also chimed in. De’Aaron Fox posted a cryptic “👀🔥” on Instagram shortly after the hiring, and RJ Barrett posted a photo of himself with a caption that simply read “Work.”

While the season is still months away from tipping off, it’s clear that storylines are already brewing — and Mike Woodson just lit the match.

In a league driven by player rivalries, trade rumors, and power moves, coaching subplots sometimes get overlooked. But the return of Mike Woodson to the NBA — and the pointed message he sent to Mike Brown — is a reminder that the men on the sidelines play their own game of strategy, competition, and legacy.

“I’m here to win,” Woodson said, standing next to Fernández. “And I’m not scared of anyone. Not even New York.”