USA Today via Reuters
May 16, 2021; New York, New York, USA; New York Knicks forward Julius Randle (30) celebrates with guard Derrick Rose (4) after their game against the Boston Celtics at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports | Courtesy: Reuters
USA Today via Reuters
May 16, 2021; New York, New York, USA; New York Knicks forward Julius Randle (30) celebrates with guard Derrick Rose (4) after their game against the Boston Celtics at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports | Courtesy: Reuters
The NBA league is usually weighed on players and performances. However, one aspect that stands out for any team is its fans. The city streets go wild when their team wins a championship or just a crucial game. However, the New York Knicks seem to be missing out on that warmth.
The city of New York is split into two teams – the Knicks and Nets. This season has been particularly interesting for NY. On one hand, Nets formed their Big 3 and on the other, the Knicks made it to the playoffs after a long time in the league.
It was a short-lived but sweet run for the Knicks in the 2021 postseason. They faced the Atlanta Hawks and lost to Trae Young‘s dominance in the five-game series. However, the fans haven’t been on the giving end in the past years of the franchise.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
New York Knicks fans boo their own team
Former NBA player Gilbert Arenas lashed out at Knicks fans for being the ‘worst’ fan base in the league.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Gilbert told during an interview episode – “I don’t think as fans we’re evolving with the talent. The whole New York fan base of the NY Knicks is stuck back in the 1980s. It shows nobody wants to play for you because you’re the worst fan base in basketball…The fact that you boo your own team sets an example for future players to ever come in. No one wants to get booed at home.”
Despite acquiring various bigwigs in the past, the Knicks have failed to make it to the top for a long time. And Gilbert blames those in the stands for dropping the team’s momentum. “The chances of you winning becomes slim because you’re not amping your team up.”
USA Today via Reuters
May 23, 2021; New York, New York, USA; Fan are on their feet close to the end of the second half in game one in the first round of the 2021 NBA Playoffs between the Atlanta Hawks and the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Seth Wenig/Pool Photo-USA TODAY Sports
This 2020-21 season was a different chapter for New York City. The Knicks got promoted to the playoffs and gave their city some hope of improvement. Julius Randle became a key player for the Knicks during the span and his individual game was a boon to his team. But, do you agree with Gilbert’s reasons attached to the fate of NY?
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
WATCH THIS STORY: Brooklyn Nets vs Milwaukee Bucks Game 7 WCSF Highlights
