Ahead of the highly anticipated Eastern Conference Semifinals between the New York Knicks and Boston Celtics, Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau had nothing but praise for his former team. However, in classic Thibodeau fashion, he couldn’t resist throwing in a lighthearted jab—this time aimed at Brian Scalabrine.
Thibodeau, who served as an assistant coach for the Celtics from 2007 to 2010, played a crucial role in Boston’s 2008 championship run. Speaking to reporters before Game 1, he reflected on his time with the franchise, calling it one of the most well-run organizations in the NBA.
“The Celtics are a first-class organization. Everything they do—from player development to coaching to front office decisions—is top-tier,” Thibodeau said. “They’ve built a winning culture that has lasted for decades.”
Just as it seemed like Thibodeau was delivering a straightforward tribute, he ended his comments with a hilarious twist:
“The only hole in the franchise is Scalabrine.”
Tom Thibodeau gushed about his time with the Celtics pregame, before joking, “the only hole in the franchise is Brian Scalabrine”
“The first time you walk into the practice facility and you’re looking up at all the banners from each decade, it’s very unique and special.” pic.twitter.com/XhIWzm1QF1
— Justin Turpin (@JustinmTurpin) May 5, 2025
The remark, delivered with a smirk, quickly went viral. Scalabrine, a fan favorite in Boston, played for the Celtics during Thibodeau’s tenure and later joined him in Chicago for his final NBA season.
