The move comes after reports surfaced that the New York Knicks, searching for a high-profile leader to guide their ambitious roster, had expressed significant interest in Ime Udoka following his impressive turnaround with Houston Rockets.

The Knicks’ interest in Udoka was no secret. After a 52-win season in which the Rockets secured the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference, Udoka’s stock as one of the NBA’s premier coaches soared.

According to multiple reports, New York’s front office had made inquiries about his availability, hoping to capitalize on any uncertainty in Houston. However, the Rockets acted quickly, finalizing a long-term extension that makes Udoka one of the highest-paid coaches in the league.

The extension signals Houston’s commitment to stability and continuity after a season that saw the young roster exceed expectations. Udoka’s leadership has been credited with instilling defensive discipline and a winning culture, transforming the Rockets from a rebuilding team into a legitimate playoff threat in just one year.

What this means for the Knicks and the coaching market

For the Knicks, Udoka’s extension is a setback in their search for a marquee coaching name. New York had reportedly been denied permission to interview both Udoka and Minnesota’s Chris Finch, narrowing their options as they look to build on a promising core that includes Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges, and OG Anunoby.

The Knicks’ front office remains focused on finding a coach who can elevate the team to true contender status, but the pool of available elite candidates has shrunk.

Rockets double down on their vision

By extending Udoka, the Rockets are doubling down on their vision for the future. With a talented young roster and a coach who has already proven he can maximize their potential, Houston is positioning itself as a major player in both the Western Conference and potential trade markets this summer.

The move also sends a clear message to the rest of the league: the Rockets are committed to building something sustainable, and Udoka is central to those plans.

As the NBA offseason heats up, Houston’s decisive action has not only secured their coaching future but also reshaped the landscape for teams like the Knicks, who must now look elsewhere to find the leader they hope can bring a championship back to New York.