The Knicks confirmed the worst-kept secret in sports Monday morning by naming Leon Rose their new team president.
The Knicks hired Rose, until recently a player agent with the Creative Artists Agency, on Feb. 6, reports said. But the team has only just informed the move. Rose, whotakes over the Knicks' front office right away, first had to go through the process of decertifying as an agent, as well as tie up some loose ends with his clients, before he could work for the team.
"We are pleased to welcome Leon to the New York Knicks as team president, and believe he is the right leader to build a winning organization for our fans," owner James Dolan said in a news release. "Leon is one of the most respected executives in professional basketball, with decades of experience successfully working with NBA players and team management in all facets of the game. We are confident he brings the right combination of expertise and relationships to ensure the long-term success of our franchise."
At CAA, Rose's client list included Carmelo Anthony, Devin Booker, Joel Embiid, Chris Paul and Karl-Anthony Towns. The Cherry Hill, New Jersey, native was LeBron James' agent from 2005-12 and also represented Dwyane Wade.
One of Rose's first orders of business as Knicks president was writing a letter to season ticket holders.
"Everyone -- from ownership to athletes, to staff and especially our fans -- wants this team to be a winner," he wrote. "We will have all the resources necessary to create a great organization -- one that supports our efforts to build a winning culture and gives Knicks fans, and the city of New York, the team you deserve.
"Nothing about this is easy, or quick, so I ask for your continued patience. What I promise you in return is that I will be honest and forthright. We will develop a plan that makes sense, both to jumpstart our short-term growth and ensure our long-term success. Our team will work hard, stick together and ensure we live up to the honor of wearing the New York Knicks jersey."
The Knicks fired coach David Fizdale and president Steve Mills this campaign. Mike Miller has been serving as interim head coach, while general manager Scott Perry had been running the front office.
The Knicks are 18-42 -- the third-worst record in the NBA. They have not reached the playoffs since 2013.
