The ink on the championship banner isn’t dry yet, but New York City has already turned into one massive block party. The Knicks ended a 53-year drought Tuesday night by edging the San Antonio Spurs 94-90 in Game 5 of the NBA Finals, and the city that never sleeps certainly didn’t start now.
Fan-shot footage captured thousands pouring into the streets across all five boroughs, their voices unified on one anthem: Jay-Z and Alicia Keys’ Empire State of Mind. The song, which won Grammys for Best Rap Song and Best Rap/Sung Collaboration in 2011, has become the unofficial soundtrack to a moment many thought they’d never see.
“Song released 17 years ago btw. Jay-Z’s music is timeless,” one fan commented on the viral clips, nodding to the Brooklyn-born rapper’s enduring cultural grip on the city. Keys, a Hell’s Kitchen native, also felt the love as her voice echoed through crowds from Harlem to Staten Island.
The last time the Knicks won a championship was 1973 — two years before the NBA even introduced the three-point line. That second title followed the franchise’s first in 1970, and until now, fans under 50 had only heard stories.
“What a moment! It’s been 53 years, they’re definitely feeling it right now,” another fan wrote online. “They’ll remember this summer forever,” added someone else.
Celebrities Crash the Party
The joy wasn’t confined to the streets. Famous fans made sure their reactions were just as loud.
Mariska Hargitay posted a photo of Knicks star Jalen Brunson on Instagram with orange lettering reading “You found a way.” Her caption: “And you lead the way for so many. Congratulations to you all and deepest thanks. #NBAFINALS CAPTAIN @jalenbrunson1 @nyknicks CHAMPIONS #BELIEVE.”
Ben Stiller was spotted outside the locker room right after the game. When a reporter asked how he felt, Stiller replied, “As happy as I’ve ever felt. It’s pretty amazing.”
Timothée Chalamet made his way inside to celebrate with the team. He was captured telling Brunson, “D–n bro you got a ring bro. That’s all you.” The actor then started chanting “Finals MVP” as Brunson accepted the award following the trophy presentation.
What Comes Next
The celebration is far from over. A parade is scheduled for Thursday, June 18, with routes still being finalized by city officials. For a fan base that waited more than half a century, one night — or even one parade — probably won’t be enough.
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