Josh Hart’s Unexpected Plea to Jay Wright: “Stay Retired!” – What’s Really Behind It?

Jay Wright isn’t stepping back into the NBA coaching spotlight anytime soon, and honestly, that might be a relief to more than just one of his former players. The legendary Villanova coach, whose resume boasts two national titles, four Final Four appearances, and an astonishing 642 victories, was briefly tossed into the ring as a candidate to steer the New York Knicks after they parted ways with Tom Thibodeau. The intrigue was real—Wright’s success in college hoops had many wondering if he might pull off the rare feat of thriving at the pro level. With three ex-Wildcats—Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges, and Josh Hart—shining on the Knicks roster, the potential storyline was too tempting to ignore. But Wright has made it clear: he’s content enjoying retirement and diving into his role as a CBS studio analyst. And judging by Josh Hart’s cheerful “Man Thank You. Stay retired!” reaction, some think that might just be for the best. Meanwhile, the Knicks look elsewhere for an NBA-experienced coach, reportedly zeroing in on Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd. The search is on—and Wright’s chapter in coaching may well be firmly closed. LEARN MORE

AdvertisementPerhaps taking those factors into consideration, Hart responded to news of Wright’s desire to stay retired by saying, “Man Thank You. Stay retired!”Jay Wright has no interest in being the New York Knicks‘ next head coach, and one of his former players is relieved about that decision.

Jay Wright has no interest in being the New York Knicks‘ next head coach, and one of his former players is relieved about that decision.

AdvertisementThe Knicks are apparently targeting experienced NBA head coaches in their search. They’re reportedly expected to request permission to interview Dallas Mavericks coach Jason Kidd. The Houston Rockets have already declined a similar inquiry regarding their coach, Ime Udoka.Advertisement