Knicks Fans Remain Hopeful Despite Loss to Celtics

New York, New York — A small but lively crowd of Knicks fans gathered outside Madison Square Garden on Wednesday night, despite the rain and their team’s loss to the Boston Celtics. The fans were watching a watch party for Game 5 of the Eastern Conference playoffs, where their team fell short, leading to a series tied at 3-2.

The excitement outside MSG showed no signs of dampening as banners waved and chants echoed. Fans altered their usual cheers to support their team, shouting, ‘Knicks in six’ as they looked forward to a critical Game 6 back in New York on Friday night.

Inside, the atmosphere was electric as former Knicks players such as John Starks and Jamal Crawford joined the watch party. They witnessed the Celtics surge ahead in the second half after a tightly contested first half that ended at 59-59.

One passionate fan, Liam Walker from Hoboken, New Jersey, expressed confidence in the Knicks’ ability to close out the series at home. ‘Yeah, I just think they were up 3-1…they just didn’t prepare properly,’ Walker said, referencing earlier successes in the series. He added optimism about the Knicks’ chances on Friday.

As the Knicks fans rallied outside, they shared drinks and indulgences, including a fan taking a shot of honey in honor of Jalen Brunson, who fouled out in the fourth quarter. The atmosphere remained positive, even as they vented frustration about the loss, with some targeting Celtics players like Kristaps Porzingis and rival LeBron James.

The watch party system has become a staple for Knicks supporters throughout this postseason, allowing fans to celebrate and unite even during challenging moments. Different chants punctuated the night, showcasing unwavering loyalty, even as some fans had earlier predicted a Game 5 victory.

Jayson Tatum’s injury loomed large over the Celtics as he underwent surgery after a previous game. In a statement shared during the broadcast, Tatum expressed, ‘I’m devastated by this and I appreciate all the love and support from everyone.’ Despite his absence, the Celtics managed to secure a win, pushing the Knicks to focus on winning Game 6 at home.