The New York Knicks have hired Kentucky associate head coach Kenny Payne as an assistant coach, the team announced.
Payne, 53, is the first formal addition to new coach Tom Thibodeau's coaching staff with the Knicks.
"I'm thrilled that Kenny has joined my staff as an assistant coach. He has an outstanding ability to forge relationships with players and improve their skills," Thibodeau said in a statement. "He knows what it takes to win and has learned from one of the best coaches there is in John Calipari. Kenny will be a tremendous addition to our organization.