The camaraderie of the New York Knicks franchise speaks volumes about their success right now. The entire city moves together in the right direction, looking to achieve greatness, and they have a solid support system. From legends to fans to former players, they went into Game 1 with renewed optimism.
Moreover, legends like Patrick Ewing, John Starks, Larry Johnson, and Latrell Sprewell all attended Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals to cheer on their team.
However, they didn’t have a night to remember, as the Indiana Pacers defeated Jalen Brunson and Co. in an incredible game, finishing 138-135 in overtime. The cameras panned to the Knicks’ icons, who came to support their team as they cherished their legacy.
The ’90s New York Knicks Icons Come in Great Numbers
During the pre-game preview at Madison Square Garden, basketball analyst Monica McNutt discussed how the game would play out for both teams. At that moment, Ewing stood behind, having a video bomb, and chanted the infamous “Go Knicks” chant.
Knicks legend Patrick Ewing stops by to show love to the @nyknicks and fellow Georgetown alumni Monica McNutt 🙌 #NewYorkForever @McNuttMonica | @CoachEwing33 pic.twitter.com/kkaOZdzb8F
— KNICKS ON MSG (@KnicksMSGN) May 21, 2025
She heard the icon and called him back as he chanted, “Go Knicks.” He also acknowledged McNutt by saying, “She’s great.”
Likewise, Ewing surprised a fan by coming onto the court and gifting her a Knicks jersey, and the fans gave him a standing ovation. Ewing’s legacy for the New York franchise cannot be undermined as the 11x All-Star took the franchise to greater heights. Although he couldn’t win an NBA championship, he won some Eastern Conference Finals and put them on the map.
Likewise, another legend who arrived at the Garden was John Starks. He enjoyed intense battles with Pacers icon Reggie Miller on the court, who called the game. In an infamous moment, Starks head-butted Miller during one play and got ejected for his troubles. So, he detailed the rivalry he shared with Miller.
“He’s gonna get a little love today, I think. You know, it’s over with me and him. Obviously, we had our battles during the ’90s. You know, we came out on top, in my opinion, for the most part. But he did have some spectacular moments here in the Garden,” said Starks.
“He’s gonna get a little love today I think.”
Knicks legend John Starks joined @TheKateRooney on the Garden floor to talk about Reggie Miller, comparisons to his 90s squads, and of course…. tonight’s Game 1 matchup!#NewYorkForever #NBAPlayoffs pic.twitter.com/gclvSwhNXU
— PIX11 Sports (@PIX11Sports) May 21, 2025
Miller had some incredible moments in his playoff series against the Knicks. The Pacers icon once hit 8 points in 9 seconds to drain the New York franchise. His infamous choke sign spread worldwide, as Tyrese Haliburton displayed it while he drained the game-tying two-pointer in regulation.
Nonetheless, Starks loved the team’s progress and said, “It’s been wild. But I have been enjoying it. The Knicks fans have been enjoying this run. The team is playing very, very well right now.”
Larry Johnson and Latrell Sprewell joined the two icons to enjoy the game. Johnson drained an iconic 4-point play shot to crush the Pacers in the 1999 playoffs. It became a memorable moment, and the Jumbotron played the video as he got a standing ovation.
Patrick Ewing, John Starks, Larry Johnson & Latrell Sprewell courtside pic.twitter.com/cMowce39Go
— New York Basketball (@NBA_NewYork) May 22, 2025
Likewise, Sprewell was one of the best scorers for the Knicks during their glory days. He was a solid scorer and led the team well from the front. But the Knicks legends went home disappointed with their shocking loss to the Pacers.
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