Tom Thibodeau Sees Only 'Benefits' to New York Knicks in World Cup

Four New York Knicks partook in the FIBA Basketball World Cup and head coach Tom Thibodeau is prepared to reap the benefits.

The New York Knicks had their fair share of players in the FIBA Basketball World Cup this NBA offseason. With NBA talent repping their respective nations, the impact that FIBA could have on the coming season is more prominent than some people may realize.

New York had four players compete in the World Cup, each of them playing prominent roles in their nations' respective runs. Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart both suited up for Team USA, RJ Barrett was one of the key players for Canada in its bronze medal run, and Evan Fournier played for France.

The World Cup can have positive and negative impacts on NBA teams. If a player gets injured, it can obviously lead people to think negatively of the tournament as a whole. But New York Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau praised the World Cup's benefits in an interview with Steve Aschburner of NBA.com.

New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson celebrates a three-pointer in the FIBA Basketball World Cup / USA TODAY SPORTS

“The benefits far outweigh whatever negatives there might be," Thibodeau said. "No one is being taxed to the point where he’s playing 40 minutes. You’re playing roughly half a game. Every player on your team is a great player, so you’re practicing against the best.” 

Certain players getting the experience of being one of the leaders of their team during the World Cup can also carry a season-changing impact. Brunson being one of the most consistent players on Team USA has made the casual fan perhaps realize just how much of an impact he can have on the Knicks. The point guard was widely viewed as a team leader during the tournament and that can only help Brunson as he prepares to headline the Knicks' future.

It may be true that playing in the World Cup could hurt more than it helps. But in the overwhelming majority of cases, including that of the Knicks', it has the potential to change the course of an entire season thanks to the unmatched experience that the players who participated have gained.