Thousands Gather for Knicks Championship Parade in Manhattan
A large crowd of fans, families and celebrities celebrated the New York Knicks' NBA championship during a ticker-tape parade that ran from Battery Park to City Hall.
New York City saw a massive turnout on Thursday as fans in blue and orange apparel lined Church Street and the parade route to honor the Knicks' NBA championship. Police blocked off Broadway and reported that viewing areas filled early in the morning, with the procession beginning at 10 a.m. and moving from Battery Park to City Hall.
Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who had anticipated a large celebration, rode on a float alongside Knicks forward Karl-Anthony Towns. Former Knicks players, including Carmelo Anthony, and celebrities such as Spike Lee, Ben Stiller, Chris Rock and Timothée Chalamet were also present.
"I’m just glad to be a part of this victory," said a fan who climbed onto a police cruiser.
"Seeing someone that looked like me play in the league was inspiring," said Wesley Chow, a Knicks fan since 2012.
"Everybody is happy for one cause and we need that," said Erica, a longtime fan who attended with her son.
"It makes me feel wanted, it makes me feel like a part of the city again," said John Rivera, who returned to New York for the parade.
Fans shared drinks, lit cigarettes and took photos, while vendors sold T-shirts with championship slogans. A local baker, known online as “Baklava Guy,” handed out pastries to the crowd, and a photographer offered Polaroid snapshots for a small fee.
The event highlighted the diverse community of Knicks supporters, with attendees describing the atmosphere as a unifying celebration for the city.