Mark Jackson -- a native of the Big Apple -- was drafted by the New York Knicks with the No. 18 overall pick in the 1987 NBA Draft.
The former Warriors coach played six full seasons (plus part of the 2000-01 campaign) with the organization, and represented the Knicks in the 1989 NBA All-Star Game.
Although he was rumored to be a candidate to become the franchise's next coach, Tom Thibodeau got the job.
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"He will establish a culture of hard work (and) discipline. Great hire for the Knicks," Jackson said on ESPN's show "First Take" Thursday morning. "I wish them nothing but the very best."
Stephen A. Smith then asked the current NBA TV analyst for his thoughts about potentially getting another NBA head-coaching job in the future.
"Coaching the Golden State Warriors for three years -- had the time of my life," Jackson said. "Relationships that will last a lifetime. (We) turned things around and had tremendous success. I look forward to the next opportunity of me being a head coach in this league once again.
"I really am excited about the opportunity of having the chance to lead another franchise -- either turn things around or keep (things) on the same track and give us a chance to win it all.
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"I look forward to that day. But I'm not a guy that's gonna go crazy waiting for an opportunity."
[RUNNIN' PLAYS PODCAST: Listen to the latest episode]
That chance just might come with the Brooklyn Nets, who parted ways with Kenny Atkinson in early March and replaced him with assistant coach Jacque Vaughn.
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If the Nets determine Vaughn is not the man for the job long term, Jackson (who grew up in Brooklyn) could end up getting the call. Don't forget that he is close with Rich Kleiman, who is Kevin Durant's business partner and close friend.
This definitely is a story to follow in the coming weeks and months.