Knicks Hold Ticker-Tape Parade After First NBA Title Since 1973

Thousands of New York Knicks fans filled lower Manhattan on Thursday for a ticker-tape parade celebrating the team's first NBA championship since 1973. The procession began at 10:00 a.m. and traveled the traditional Canyon of Heroes route from Bowling Green to City Hall. Organizers released 2,500 pounds of recycled confetti along the 10-block stretch.

City officials deployed 10,000 police officers, the largest planned-event detail in department history. Public viewing areas reached capacity three hours before the start, prompting some spectators to climb a city dump truck for a better view. Traffic restrictions affected multiple Manhattan streets already busy with World Cup visitors.

Knicks players rode in open vehicles alongside National Guard personnel. Team owner James Dolan told local media that the program at City Hall would include appearances by former players, the Knicks City Dancers, and five marching bands. We were starved for so long." — Anthony Martorelli, 29-year-old retail worker, June 18, 2026 (Le Monde with AFP)

“I was nine, doing New York stuff, riding bikes and playing tag and I remember my sisters drinking Miller High Life when the Knicks won. That's when I became a fan. I'm a five-time cancer survivor, so this means so much to see.”

Mayor Zohran Mamdani's office organized the event and planned to present the team with the symbolic key to the city at the conclusion of the route.