NBA: Derek Fisher named head coach of New York Knicks

Derek Fisher has been named as the head coach of the New York Knicks.

The team’s new president Phil Jackson announced the five-time NBA champion would take over from Mike Woodson, who was fired in April after the Knicks missed out on the playoffs.

The 39-year-old, will switch from playing for Oklahoma City to steering a Knicks team that was 37-45 last season and missed the playoffs for the first time in four years.

Jackson, a former Knicks player who won a record 11 NBA titles as coach of the Chicago Bulls and the Lakers, was hired in March to turn the team around and wiped the slate clean by firing Woodson and his staff when the season ended.

The Knicks last won an NBA title in 1973, when Jackson played for the New York team as a defensive minded forward.

“Today marks the next step of this journey for the New York Knicks franchise as we name Derek to lead the team as its head coach,” said Jackson.

“Our relationship began 15 years ago, and over time, it has come clear to me that he and I can form a great partnership once again.”

Fisher, who played 10 of his 18 NBA seasons under Jackson, said: “I’m excited to embark on the next phase of my basketball career and look forward to coaching a Knicks team that fans can be proud of.

“It’s an honour to work alongside Phil Jackson, who is both a legend and friend, as we strive together to reach our ultimate goal of bringing a championship back to New York.

“There’s no question that Phil Jackson’s presence here was a huge part of the decision.”