Charlotte Hornets Assistant Chris Jent Finalizing Deal to Become Associate Head Coach of the New York Knicks Under Mike Brown
In a move that signals both experience and familiarity, Charlotte Hornets assistant coach Chris Jent is finalizing a deal to join the New York Knicks as their associate head coach under newly appointed head coach Mike Brown, sources told ESPN. The agreement — negotiated between the Knicks and Tyler Glass of CSE Talent — will bring Jent back to a franchise where he once wore the jersey as a player during the 1996–97 season.
This development comes as part of the Knicks’ broader coaching overhaul following the hiring of Brown, who is aiming to shape a staff rich in NBA experience, player development skills, and playoff pedigree. Jent’s addition ticks all those boxes, providing New York with a veteran basketball mind who has worked with championship-caliber teams and some of the game’s biggest stars.
A Reunion with the Knicks
For Jent, the move is something of a homecoming. His first stint with the Knicks came nearly three decades ago when he joined the roster in the 1996–97 season, appearing in a limited role as a forward. While his on-court tenure in New York was brief, it left a lasting impression on Jent, who has often spoken fondly about his time in Madison Square Garden and the culture of the organization.
Now, he returns not as a role player but as a senior member of the coaching staff — an opportunity to help shape the Knicks from the sidelines rather than the hardwood.
Why Jent is a Key Hire for Mike Brown
Mike Brown, who was officially named Knicks head coach earlier this offseason, has been deliberate in assembling a staff that blends strategic acumen with player rapport. Jent fits seamlessly into that vision. Known for his calm demeanor, strong communication skills, and deep offensive knowledge, he has earned respect around the league for his ability to develop young players and work closely with veterans alike.
The two men have familiarity, as Jent and Brown overlapped in various NBA coaching circles over the past two decades. Brown has previously praised Jent for his attention to detail and adaptability — traits essential for the high-pressure, high-scrutiny environment of New York basketball.
Coaching Career Highlights
Chris Jent’s coaching career spans more than two decades, including assistant roles with the Philadelphia 76ers, Orlando Magic, Cleveland Cavaliers, Atlanta Hawks, Los Angeles Lakers, and most recently, the Charlotte Hornets.
One of his most notable stops came in Cleveland, where he served multiple stints with the Cavaliers and was part of the coaching staff during LeBron James’ early career. His player development skills were often cited as key to James’ growth into a well-rounded superstar. Jent also worked closely with other stars, including Dwight Howard in Orlando and Trae Young in Atlanta.
Beyond the NBA, Jent has also coached at the college level, serving as an assistant at Ohio State, where he helped guide the Buckeyes to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances.
Impact on the Knicks’ Future
The Knicks are coming off a season that left fans with both optimism and lingering frustration. While the team showed flashes of strong play and made the postseason, inconsistencies on both ends of the floor and injuries to key players hindered their progress.
Jent’s arrival as associate head coach is expected to give the Knicks a sharper offensive structure and improved player development focus. He has a reputation for maximizing role players’ contributions and enhancing star players’ efficiency — two areas where the Knicks can improve if they hope to contend in the Eastern Conference.
Additionally, Jent’s championship experience as a player (he won an NBA title with the Houston Rockets in 1994) and his tenure alongside some of the league’s best coaches make him a valuable resource for both Brown and the roster.
The Role of Associate Head Coach
While the title “associate head coach” might sound purely honorary, it carries substantial weight in the NBA. Often, the associate head coach serves as the second-in-command, overseeing practice sessions, managing in-game adjustments, and stepping into the head role when needed. For Mike Brown, having Jent in that position means he will have a trusted voice by his side to help execute the team’s vision and handle the day-to-day demands of running a high-profile team.
Given Jent’s experience, it’s likely he will also take a lead role in developing the Knicks’ young talent, such as RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley, while also working closely with established veterans like Jalen Brunson and Julius Randle.
Negotiations and the Path Forward
The deal between Jent and the Knicks was brokered by Tyler Glass of CSE Talent, with talks described as “smooth and mutually enthusiastic.” Sources say both sides viewed the partnership as an ideal fit, with Jent’s familiarity with the Knicks’ culture and his coaching résumé making him an easy choice for the associate head coach position.
Once finalized, the hire will become one of the cornerstone moves of Brown’s first offseason in New York, setting the tone for the rest of his staff selections and training camp preparations.
Fan and Media Reactions
Early reactions to the news from Knicks fans have been largely positive. Many have pointed out Jent’s extensive experience and expressed excitement about the blend of coaching talent that Brown is assembling. While some remain cautious, noting that results on the court will be the ultimate test, the consensus is that this is a smart and strategic hire.
In the fast-paced, results-driven world of New York sports, Jent will have little time to ease into his role. Expectations for the Knicks remain high, and both he and Brown will be under pressure to deliver progress quickly.
Chris Jent’s return to the Knicks — this time in a leadership role — is more than a nostalgic footnote. It’s a calculated move by Mike Brown and the organization to inject proven experience and developmental expertise into a team aiming to take the next step in its evolution. If all goes as planned, this reunion could play a key role in shaping the Knicks into a more consistent, competitive force in the NBA.
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