New York Knicks appoint Derek Fisher as the head coach

Derek Fisher

Phil Jackson and the New York Knicks held an official press conference on Tuesday morning to appoint five times NBA Champion Derek Fisher as the 26th Head Coach of the Knicks.

"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. 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."-Phil Jackson, President of Basketball Operations for the New York Knicks.

Despite playing for five teams all through his 18 years in the league , Fisher won all of his five championships with the Los Angeles Lakers when Jackson was their head coach. Jackson indicated that his friendship with the Little Rock native made a huge influence on his decision.

"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 honor 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."-Derek Fisher.

A 24th overall first round pick by the Los Angeles Lakers in 1996, the transition will be easier for Fisher. Fisher had served as the President of the National Basketball Player’s Association (NBPA) for seven years from 2006 to 2013.