Celebrities Flock to Madison Square Garden for Game 2 of Eastern Conference Finals
A star-studded crowd attended Game 2 of the Eastern Conference finals at Madison Square Garden on Friday night, with many celebrities showing their support for the New York Knicks. According to USA Today, the likes of Russell Wilson, Ciara, and Timothée Chalamet were in attendance, but unfortunately, the Knicks lost their second straight game at home to the Indiana Pacers.
The highly anticipated matchup brought out a variety of celebrities, ranging from Knicks legends such as Carmelo Anthony, Patrick Ewing, and Walt "Clyde" Frazier to comedians like Tracy Morgan, Dave Chappelle, and Larry David. Award-winning actors, including Jon Hamm, Timothée Chalamet, and Ben Stiller, were also in attendance, along with Grammy-winning musicians like Mary J. Blige, Jennifer Hudson, and Common. World-class athletes, including Suni Lee and CC Sabathia, were also spotted in the crowd.
As reported by USA Today, Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals brought out a diverse range of celebrities, and Game 2 was no exception. A who’s who of Hollywood turned out to Madison Square Garden on Friday, including actor Michael J. Fox, comedian/actor Jim Gaffigan, "Curb Your Enthusiasm" actress Susie Essman, "Miami Vice" actor Don Johnson, "Stranger Things" actor Caleb McLaughlin, "Entourage" actor Jerry Ferrarra, "The Sopranos" star Edie Falco, and "Gladiator 2" star Fred Hechinger.
New York Giants head coach Brian Daboll and his newest quarterback, Russell Wilson, were also in attendance, enjoying the offseason. Musician Ciara, the Grammy-nominated wife of Wilson, was also on hand, with the power couple matching in denim. USA Today reported that Timothée Chalamet had a front-row seat for Game 2, and was seated next to fellow superfan Ben Stiller.
Chalamet’s fervent support for the Knicks, as reported by the New York Times, began during his high school days at LaGuardia High School in Manhattan. USA Today also mentioned that "Mad Men" actor Jon Hamm was in the building, and he was on his best behavior, having made a mad man out of Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton during Game 1.
A pair of broadcasting legends, Hall of Fame broadcaster Marv Albert and longtime NBC Sports broadcaster Bob Costas, were also in attendance. USA Today reported that Busta Rhymes was back for Game 2, dropping a new song, "New York Knicks Anthem," in the midst of the game to rally the fanbase.
The champ, Walt "Clyde" Frazier, led the Knicks to two titles in 1970 and 1973, which remain the franchise’s only NBA championships to date. He was not the only Knick alum to return home for Game 2, with Hubert Davis, the current head coach of the North Carolina men’s basketball team, also in attendance. Davis played for the Knicks from 1992-1996.
Other celebrities spotted at the game included Maggie Rogers, Questlove, and Jelly Roll. Comedian Jerry O’Connell said Game 2 was a "MUST WIN" for the Knicks, posting a courtside selfie featuring fellow actor Justin Long. USA Today also reported that basketball players can get starstruck, with TNT commentator Kenny Smith noting that players feel pressure competing in front of celebrities, especially in New York and Los Angeles.
Seven-time major winning tennis star John McEnroe stopped by TNT’s "Inside the NBA" pregame show to promote the upcoming French Open. USA Today reported that McEnroe turned to broadcasting after his career, and has become a successful commentator.
New York Knicks superstar Jalen Brunson has only been left awestruck by one celebrity, Mariska Hargitay, longtime star of the hit TV show "Law & Order: SVU." According to USA Today, Brunson said he was starstruck by Hargitay, but the two have since developed a friendship.
Game 2 of the Eastern Conference finals between the New York Knicks and Indiana Pacers tipped off on Friday at 8 p.m. ET. The game was broadcast on TNT and streamed on Max and Sling.
