New York spent the entire summer celebrating the Knicks’ first NBA championship since 1973.
On Tuesday, the official celebration began.
With LeBron James and the Philadelphia 76ers in town for their season debut, the Knicks handed out championship rings and held up a banner in front of an ecstatic crowd at Madison Square Garden. Unfortunately for the Knicks and their fans, the 76ers spoiled the party with a 106-100 victory.
Advertisement
The party began with the Larry O’Brien Trophy placed on center court, surrounded by rings, ready to be presented.
Then the players – led by championship heroes Jalen Brunson, OG Anunoby and Karl-Anthony Towns – were introduced to raucous cheers. They were able to admire their rings for the first time.
The rings were a sight to behold.
As players tried out their new hardware, the Knicks released a video detailing the elaborate craftsmanship of the rings. In a world where each new championship ring seeks to outdo the last, the Knicks have made a grand entrance.
The rings represent Madison Square Garden, inside and out. The top of the ring rises to show the structure of the world-famous building. This removable top reveals the stands and MSG pitch below.
Once the rings were handed out, it was Brunson’s turn to take the microphone. He gave a brief speech before getting down to business.
“What’s up, Knicks fans?” » Brunson said. “Most importantly, I want to thank you for not leaving Game 4. We really appreciate it. Even though we won this, we wouldn’t have done this without you. It’s incredible. It’s truly a dream come true.
Advertisement
“I know overall, we’re excited to get this season going. We’re ready to turn the page as a team. But one thing I want to say: The joy this city had this summer, we’d like to replicate that again. Thanks guys. Let’s raise that banner.”
Raise that banner, they did it.
And that was it.
LeBron and the 76ers were waiting, and it was time to get to work securing another banner for the MSG rafters. That quest started 0-1 and will continue with a trip to visit the rival Boston Celtics on Friday.
Gn sports
