Isiah Thomas is only 1,286 miles from New York City in Miami, Florida, but it probably feels more like halfway across the world in Zeke’s mind. Far from the beat writers, the columnists and the radio and TV personalities who slammed him for four straight years when he was the Knicks’ GM and head coach. Now he’s the head coach at Florida International University. The Golden Panthers of the Sun Belt Conference are just 3-10, fans on campus aren’t chanting “Fire Isiah” at home games and beat writers (not even sure if FIU even has one) aren’t crucifying him.

With the exception of Magic Johnson blasting Thomas in his new autobiography, Isiah has been able to fly under the radar as far as making headlines is concerned. It must be a good change of pace for the Hall of Fame guard who was the national media’s doormat for years. Everything from scrutinizing his decisions as the Knicks’ GM, to the embarrassing sexual harassment case to his negative relationship with several players, coaches and journalists. The lowest point for Isiah came right after he was fired as the Knicks head coach when he was taken to the hospital after overdosing on a sleeping pill. The media and public speculated it was a suicide attempt and Thomas started to get the Tiger-treatment from the paparazzi.

After taking the head coaching job at FIU in April, Thomas has kept a low profile. His team has lost by double digits in eight games. The worst came on a road game against Tulsa back on Nov. 15, where the Golden Panthers lost by 31 points (81-49). Despite their losing, Thomas is happy to be involved in basketball without having to deal with the spotlight.

“I’ve made a lot of money on the game. I got a great lifestyle,” Thomas told the Denver Post. “As long as basketball is part of my lifestyle — I know it’s crazy because I know you’re supposed to go somewhere and retire — but I just love the game. As long as I’m around the game, I’m good.”