“F**k Him”: Josh Hart Refuses To Reciprocate Villanova Brotherhood To 76ers’ Ex-Champion Amid Heated Playoff Series

The playoffs are here and tensions are high; with heightened emotions and fierce rivalries. A recent statement from Knicks’ Josh Hart has added a new layer of intensity to the latest showdown between the New York Nicks and the Philadelphia 76ers where the Knicks won 111-104.

Following the match, Hart had something interesting to say about the 76ers’ point guard, Kyle Lowry. The two of them go way back.

“F**k him”: The odd pair’s dynamic

The bond forged by their shared alma mater, Villanova University, may run deep, but as the NBA playoffs intensify, so does the competitive edge between former Wildcats Josh Hart and Kyle Lowry.
In a recent exchange, according to Knicks writer and NBA columnist Steve Popper from Newsday Sports, Hart reflected on his friendship with Lowry, acknowledging the significance of having a mentor and champion like Lowry in his corner. “It’s definitely dope to have a big brother like that who’s a champion, who’s had a very successful career,” Hart expressed. However, now that the 76ers and the Knicks are gearing up for a heated playoff showdown, Hart didn’t mince his words about their fiery relationship on the court. “Right now, until one of us moves on, it’s f**k him,” he said bluntly. Hart brought home 22 points while Lowry secured 18.

At a 76ers availability event, when Lowry was asked why Hart is tough to keep off the glass as an offensive rebounder, the 76ers’ star said, “He went to Villanova, that’s why.”

The friendship between Hart and Lowry transcends basketball; it’s rooted in their shared experiences at Villanova, a university known for its rich basketball history. Josh Hart isn’t the only Knicks player who attended Villanova. His teammates, Jalen Brunson and Donte DiVincenzo also share his alma mater.

Hart tried to recruit Lowry

In an interview with CBS Sports, Hart spoke about his relationship with Lowry. The two first met at Villanova and according to Hart, ever since then, “He’s there, no matter what it is.”
When Kyle Lowry hit free agency some time back, Hart tried to recruit him for the Knicks. Hart texted him immediately after he was released from the Charlotte Hornets. About the interaction, he said, “Yeah, I texted his ass. I told him, ‘Pull up.’ Told him, ‘F**k with us.’ But obviously, that didn’t happen, so f**k him.”

Hart continued to say, “As a friend, you love to see the success that he’s had in the league and the longevity that he’s had in the league. As an opponent, however, you hate playing against someone like that.” Their relationship is one that goes beyond the court, the two have mutual admiration and respect for each other.

While their friendship may be going strong off the court, on the hardwood, they’re fighting tooth and nail, each giving it their all to lead their team to glory. It’s a thrilling spectacle for all amid the playoff competition. Watch the Villanova brothers go up against each other in the Knicks vs 76ers face off on Monday, April 22, 7:30 pm EST.