Knicks Raise First Rafter Banner in 53 Years as 76ers Capture Opening‑Night Win
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The New York Knicks unveiled their first new rafter banner in 53 years at Madison Square Garden on Tuesday night, a ceremony that marked a historic moment for the franchise. The banner, which took its time ascending from the floor to the left of the “M” in the arena’s name, was the only one to be displayed that evening. The event was attended by notable figures including Mariska Hargitay, Spike Lee, Roger Goodell and Jon Bon Jovi. While the Knicks celebrated the banner, the 76ers, led by LeBron James, stole the spotlight with a 106‑100 victory over the Knicks on opening night. The Garden, a venue that also hosts concerts, hockey, bull riding and monster trucks, remains the epicenter of a basketball city whose playgrounds have produced legends worldwide. The banner’s arrival was described as a “beautiful curtain” that honors the luckiest of the lucky. The ceremony took place before the 6:30 p.m. opening‑night game, which drew the highest ticket price in NBA history for an opener, according to Forbes. The Knicks’ fans, wearing jerseys and championship gear, filled the arena in anticipation of the new chapter for the team.
Timeline
- 1973 — Knicks win NBA championship, first title since 1973
- 2025 — Knicks secure 2025‑26 NBA Cup, first title in 52 years
- On October 20 2026 Banner raised at Madison Square Garden, opening night ceremony.
- On October 20 2026 76ers defeat Knicks 106‑100, LeBron James leads victory.
- On October 20 2026 Brunson delivers speech, urges repeat championship.
Sources
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