The New York Knicks can stop their head coaching search ... 'cause Metta World Peace says he's the guy for the job!!

TMZ Sports caught up with the former NBA star following the shocking firing of Tom Thibodeau on Tuesday ... and MWP explained he's dead serious about leading the N.Y. sidelines. Getty

"I would love the opportunity just to coach," the 45-year-old said. "I'm not interested in nothing else. I've been preparing for this."

In fact ... Metta said he wasn't gonna wait by the phone for the Knicks to come calling -- he already notified the front office of his interest.

"I sent messages everywhere," he added.

Don't forget -- Metta, a New York native, has coaching experience. He's worked in the G-League with the South Bay Lakers, spent several years coaching the Palisade

See Full Page