Knicks guard reaches NBA Finals with team after February trade

Jose Alvarado learned he would join the Knicks and reacted with visible emotion, as did his parents. The point guard from Brooklyn and Christ the King High School is now part of the Knicks roster for their first NBA Finals appearance in 27 years. The team faces the Spurs in the series opener at Frost Bank Center.

Alvarado said the moment exceeds anything he had envisioned while growing up in New York.

Path to the roster The Knicks acquired Alvarado in early February to add backcourt depth after Miles McBride was sidelined by injury. Alvarado lost his rotation spot late in the regular season but returned as Jalen Brunson’s backup once the postseason began.

He has contributed 4.2 points and 1.1 assists per game in the playoffs. His defensive pressure and energy have aligned with the team’s style of play.

Background and outlook Alvarado went undrafted after playing at Georgia Tech and later reached the league with another organization. He described his current situation as an ongoing story he hopes will encourage others. Knicks fans have filled arenas in Atlanta, Philadelphia, and Cleveland during the team’s playoff run. Alvarado said the atmosphere reflects the city’s typical intensity.