New York Knicks head coach Mike Brown called his father right after Tom Coughlin invited him to the Tom Coughlin Jay Fund Foundation’s annual Champions for Children Gala earlier this month.
Brown explained that when Coughlin invited him to the event, he called his father, saying he would attend, and his father responded with excitement.
Brown, who guided the Knicks to their first NBA championship in 53 years this spring, joined the two‑time Super Bowl‑winning Giants coach on stage at Pier 60, Chelsea Piers. The gala raised $1.6 million for the foundation, which assists families in New York and New Jersey affected by childhood cancer.
Brown said he has long admired Coughlin. ‘His coaching achievements were remarkable,’ he noted. ‘Going 9‑7 in 2011 and 10‑6 in 2007 shows how a season should be approached.’
He added that success is built over the season, and teams must endure challenges before peaking for the postseason. ‘Both the 2007 and 2011 Giants demonstrated textbook preparation, overcoming adversity and capitalizing when the moment arrived.’
Brown highlighted the contrast in their personalities: ‘I’m a bit goofy, whereas Coughlin is serious and never goofy. His presence is palpable.’
Coughlin and his late wife, Judy, founded the Jay Fund in 1996 to honor Jay McGillis. In its 31st year, the organization offers financial, emotional, and practical assistance to parents of children undergoing treatment.
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