The New York Knicks have been a storied franchise with a passionate fanbase, and no one knows this better than actor Ben Stiller, a lifelong supporter of the team. As the Knicks made the tough decision to part ways with head coach Tom Thibodeau after a successful five-year tenure, Stiller took to social media to express his gratitude for the coach’s efforts in revitalizing the team.

Stiller, who is a regular fixture at Madison Square Garden, especially during critical moments of the season, was quick to offer his praise for Thibodeau. In a heartfelt post, he acknowledged how much the coach had brought the team back to prominence, stating, “I am a Tom Thibodeau fan. He brought this team back. I felt he gave every bit of himself and was always looking to improve. I will always be grateful for how far he brought the Knicks. They are relevant again. They are championship contenders again. The Knicks became winners again with him.”

The sentiment from Stiller highlights the impact Thibodeau had during his time with the Knicks. Despite the team being ousted from the Eastern Conference finals by the Indiana Pacers, Thibodeau managed to guide the team to back-to-back 50-win seasons, something the franchise hadn’t done in nearly 30 years. Under his leadership, the Knicks achieved a level of consistency that was missing for years, and the team’s roster, filled with younger stars, had grown into real contenders for the first time in decades.

Stiller’s connection to the team is no secret. As a lifelong fan, he is often spotted courtside at Knicks games, and during the team’s recent playoff run, he was seen cheering alongside fellow superfan, actor Timothée Chalamet. Their support didn’t go unnoticed, even becoming the subject of playful jabs from players and media alike. In fact, Stiller’s comment on Pacers’ star Tyrese Haliburton’s pre-game entrance made headlines, highlighting his trademark humor and passion for the team.

While Thibodeau’s departure comes after a deep playoff run that ended in six games, his legacy with the Knicks is one of transformation. The team is now in a more competitive position than it has been in years, and Thibodeau played a pivotal role in that shift.

Stiller’s message reflected the sentiments of many Knicks fans who recognized the effort and dedication Thibodeau brought to the team. “Thank you Coach Thibs,” Stiller concluded, showing his appreciation for the coach who helped put the Knicks back on the map.

As the Knicks move forward, the organization and its fans will surely remember the efforts of Thibodeau, even as they begin to look for the next leader to bring the franchise closer to its championship dreams.