From Player to Coach: Reed’s Post-Playing Life
Willis Reed never left basketball. He transitioned quickly into coaching and management.
He started as a Knicks assistant, then head coach (1977-79), then moved to the ABA/NBA New Jersey Nets as head coach and VP of basketball operations, and later coached St. John's. With the Nets he stabilized the roster and developed youth during the ABA-to-NBA transition.
In 1982 Reed was enshrined in the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame—the ultimate nod to his two titles, two Finals MVPs and seven All-Star nods. In 2023 the Knicks retired his No. 19, keeping "the Captain" forever above MSG.
His coaching and executive career extended his playing creed: team, discipline, responsibility. He didn't become a superstar coach; he became the kind of veteran basketball most needs—one who passes the culture down.
