New York ? Isiah Thomas’ courtship of Larry Brown began Tuesday night, almost immediately after the coach and the Detroit Pistons reached a buy-out agreement that will allow Brown to coach the Knicks or any other team next season.

The Knicks’ president is expected to meet with the Hall of Fame coach as soon as Thursday and is prepared to offer Brown a five-year contract worth between $50 million and $60 million, which would make him the highest-paid coach in NBA history. The Knicks are optimistic that they could have a deal in place by next week.

The only hold-up is whether Brown, who has several health issues, wants to return to the sidelines immediately or sit out anywhere from five months to a full season.

“I don’t see myself coaching again next year,” Brown said Tuesday night. “But you never know.”

Brown continues to keep his plans close to the vest, suggesting that he would like to see interim coach Herb Williams remain on the job. Williams would be the Knicks’ choice if Brown declines the position.

Should Brown agree to join the Knicks, there is a strong possibility that the team, with Brown’s blessing of course, would ask Williams to remain on the bench, possibly as an assistant head coach.

The Knicks, who have been without a head coach since the day after their 33-49 season, confirmed Tuesday night that Thomas and Brown will meet.

“Now that the Detroit situation is settled, obviously Isiah will be reaching out to Larry,” said Garden spokesman Barry Watkins.

Brown, regarded as one of the top coaches in league history and certainly its most well-traveled one, has always been Thomas’ first choice. However, the Knicks have declined to talk publicly about their interest in Brown while he was still under contract with Detroit.