Jordan Brink, a key assistant on Mike Brown's coaching staff, is leaving the New York Knicks to join the Chicago Bulls as an assistant on Tiago Splitter's staff. Brink, who served as the Knicks' director of video services and player development for the past three seasons, was particularly noted for his expertise in managing the team's coach's challenges.
During his tenure, which began under Tom Thibodeau in 2023 and continued with Brown, Brink oversaw a highly successful challenge strategy. This role proved crucial in key moments, including Game 2 of the NBA Finals against the Spurs. With the Knicks trailing and facing a critical call late in the fourth quarter, Brink advised Brown to challenge a foul call on OG Anunoby. The successful challenge reversed the original ruling, leading to Anunoby making three free throws and halting the Spurs' momentum in a game the Knicks ultimately won 105-104.
"Jordan, he's been a master at this," Brown said of Brink previously. "I rely totally on him."
Brink's departure comes as his contract expired. The Bulls' offer represents a promotion and a clearer path towards his aspirations of becoming a head coach. The move also brings him closer to his hometown of Dyer, Indiana. The Knicks, whose coaching staff is currently at capacity, could not offer a similar advancement.
Brink, who played collegiately at Calvin College, began his NBA coaching career as an assistant for the Detroit Pistons under Dwane Casey. He was also the Knicks' Summer League coach last year.
The Knicks also lost another lower-level assistant, Carson Shanks, earlier this offseason due to his contract expiring. Brink leaves the Knicks having contributed to a championship-winning season and leaves behind a void in the crucial challenge role that the team will now need to fill.