The New York Knicks took over Philadelphia last night. Philly was drowned in orange as the Knicks took a commanding 3-1 lead over the 76ers. Jalen Brunson dropped a playoff high 47-points to sink philly. However, one thing stood out in particular. The Knicks fans took over Wells Fargo center. They drowned the support for the home side. It was a brilliant display of passion and relentlessness. Knicks fans, who were so used to mediocrity are now treated to a team which is a strong contender for the championship.
Brunson’s Brilliance
The Knicks beat the 76ers 97-92. They were down several points on multiple occasions but they showed immense resolve. OG Anuboby was tremendous for the Knicks. He, along with Josh Hart stopped the reigning MVP, Joel Embiid on multiple occasions. Jalen Brunson beat the record set by Bernard King to have the most points in a playoff game for the Knicks. He was delighted by the support displayed by the Knicks fans and lauded it after the game.
Humiliated at Home
Joel Embiid however was far from impressed. He was ticked off by the support for the Orange and Blue in his house. He called the lack of support for Philadelphia disappointing. The difference in support was glaring, as hordes of fans from the Empire State made the 2-hour transit from Midtown Manhattan. Tom Thibodeau’s side has galvanized the dormant Knicks fans. They are well and truly believing in their side again.
Pacers in the Playoffs
The Knicks have reached the Conference semifinals for the second consecutive year. After decades of disappointment, they’ve finally become challengers. They look set to win this series and face the Indiana Pacers next. Despite losing Julius Randle to a shoulder injury before the playoffs began, they’ve looked unfazed. New York has gone from strength to strength. However, the Pacers, with their high octane offense will be a tough matchup.
Knicks in 5
The Knicks face the 76ers again on Tuesday at the Garden. One can expect big performances from Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby again. This team has never been stronger This is their chance to finish the series. The home support for them will be rampant and with Joel Embiid and the 76ers falling apart, this is their shot. Game 5 of this series is the end of the road for The Philadelphia 76ers and the beginning of a new era for The New York Knicks.
