New York City crowns the Knicks with keys to the city after historic victory

New York City honored the New York Knicks' historic NBA championship with a jubilant parade and a key to the city ceremony on Thursday. Mayor Zohran Mamdani presented the team with the keys on the steps of City Hall, capping off celebrations following the team's first championship in over half a century.

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For 53 years we have waited. Now we win.

"For 53 years we have waited. Now we win," Mayor Mamdani declared, adding that New Yorkers knew this moment would arrive. He praised the Knicks, stating they "won not just for the city of New York, but won as the city of New York." The ceremony featured a performance by Alicia Keys, who sang "Empire State of Mind," a song deeply associated with the city and the team's playoff run.

Team captain and Finals MVP Jalen Brunson expressed gratitude to the thousands of fans for their unwavering support, even joking about their critical nature at times. He dedicated the victory to his fans and family, thanking the Knicks organization for believing in him when "few did."

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the Knicks not only won for the city of New York, but won as the city of New York.

The festivities included the City Hall building being adorned with the Knicks' team colors, player names, and numbers, alongside a "NBA Champions 2026" banner. Puerto Rican flags were visible in the crowd to celebrate player José Alvarado. The event was emceed by Knicks announcer Mike Breen, with singer Avery Wilson performing the national anthem. Players also playfully presented Keys with the keys to the city they had just received.

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though sometimes they are 'very critical,' he joked.

The celebration followed a massive turnout earlier in the day, with fans flooding Wall Street and Broadway for a parade that culminated at City Hall. The Knicks' victory over the San Antonio Spurs ended a long championship drought for the team and the city.

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thanked the Knicks for trusting him 'when few did'