In a bold and celebratory move, New York City has temporarily renamed streets across Manhattan in honor of the Knicks’ current playoff roster. This symbolic tribute coincides with the team’s exhilarating run to the Eastern Conference Finals—marking their first appearance at this stage since the year 2000—and aims to rally fans and elevate citywide morale.
Knicks-Inspired Streets: A Creative Homage
The street co-namings were selected based on each player’s jersey number and are scattered throughout Manhattan. These aren’t permanent changes but rather honorary signs meant to build community spirit and put the team’s success in the spotlight. One of the most notable examples is “Jalen Brunson Boulevard,” which appeared at the intersection of West 11th Street and Seventh Avenue—paying homage to the team’s leading scorer and fan-favorite.
All the signs are designed in Knicks’ signature blue and orange, adding a splash of team pride to familiar neighborhoods. They will remain up throughout the playoff season, serving as landmarks for fans and symbols of unity across the borough.
Mayor Gets Involved
Mayor Eric Adams has voiced his full support for the Knicks and the city’s creative show of encouragement.
“The Knicks embody the spirit of New York—resilient, passionate, and unstoppable. On the path to a championship, we recognize the hard work and determination that has gotten this team to the Eastern Conference Finals, and we’re celebrating this team by temporarily co-naming our city streets so all New Yorkers can celebrate their Knicks pride.”
The initiative was coordinated with the help of NYC & Company, the city’s official tourism and marketing organization, and has generated both buzz and foot traffic in areas displaying the temporary signs.
Fans React with Joy and Nostalgia
Fans of the team have embraced the tribute wholeheartedly, with many visiting renamed streets to take photos and share their Knicks pride on social media. From downtown Manhattan to uptown blocks, the initiative has captured imaginations and added another layer of excitement to this year’s playoff run.
Street corners honoring players like Julius Randle, Josh Hart, and Mitchell Robinson have become popular photo ops, and the move has been praised for its creativity and heartfelt execution.
Beyond Street Signs: A Citywide Celebration
The temporary street renaming is only one part of the city’s broader celebration of the Knicks’ playoff run. Local establishments—from sports bars in Midtown to coffee shops in Harlem—have been organizing viewing parties and offering Knicks-themed specials. Community events and large-scale viewing screens have brought together fans from all backgrounds to watch the games live.
Radio City Music Hall recently hosted a large playoff watch party, which drew hundreds of fans and helped raise money for local youth through the Garden of Dreams Foundation.
Why It Matters
For a city that breathes basketball and bleeds orange and blue, this tribute to the Knicks is about more than just sports. It’s a reminder of the community power sports can hold in a place like New York—where neighborhoods are diverse but deeply connected. The Knicks, with their scrappy defense and clutch performances, have become a symbol of New York’s resilient spirit.
As the team continues its pursuit of the NBA Finals, these renamed streets offer more than directions—they offer hope, excitement, and a strong sense of belonging to something bigger.
