National Basketball Association

Ewing 'interested' in Knicks job

Published Mar. 28, 2012 1:00 a.m. ET

foxsports

Knicks great Patrick Ewing said Wednesday he had paid his dues as an assistant and was ready to step up to a head coaching role — and would certainly be interested in a return home to New York.

Ewing, currently an Orlando Magic assistant, said interim coach Mike Woodson was doing an "outstanding" job since taking over from Mike D'Antonti at the Knicks.

But if team management decided against retaining Woodson in the summer, Ewing said he would be putting his hand up.

"I'd be interested in any job, but this is home, naturally," Ewing told ESPN at Madison Square Garden, where the Knicks routed the Magic 108-86.

"I still have my place here [in New Jersey], and I'd love to interview for any job, here or anywhere.

"I played here. I know the ins and outs of New York, the media, the fans."

Ewing, 49, said he'd "put in the work" as an assistant and was eager to progress his career.

"I think I've paid my dues," said Ewing. "I've been an assistant coach for eight, going on nine years, and I'd love to have an opportunity to get an interview."