The New York Knicks have come to the defence of American pop superstar Taylor Swift after two of their players suggested that her appearances at the team’s games may be more about publicity than genuine support.
The controversy started during an NBA 2K livestream on Thursday when Knicks point guards Tyler Kolek and Miles McBride were asked to identify the celebrity they considered the least genuine supporter of the basketball franchise.
Kolek mentioned Swift, suggesting that some celebrities attend games mainly to attract attention rather than because of their passion for the team. McBride agreed with his assessment.
Kolek further explained that he had not seen the singer at many Knicks games, although he acknowledged that she had a busy schedule. He also anticipated criticism from Swift’s large fan base, popularly known as Swifties.
However, the team’s management was quick to distance itself from the players’ comments. In a statement on Friday, a Knicks spokesperson insisted that Swift had maintained a longstanding relationship with the franchise and deserved recognition for her support.
The spokesperson noted that the singer had supported the team for years and shared a strong connection with Madison Square Garden, adding that the organisation appreciated her continued backing.
Swift was among the celebrities who watched the Knicks during their championship campaign earlier this year. She attended Game Four of the NBA Finals in New York alongside musicians Este and Alana Haim and actress Mariska Hargitay.
The singer has also been spotted at several Knicks games in previous years, including matchups against the Chicago Bulls and Orlando Magic in 2014.
Beyond basketball, Swift has a longstanding relationship with Madison Square Garden, having performed at the iconic venue during her Fearless and Speak Now tours.
The Knicks’ championship victory over the San Antonio Spurs in Game Five, which ended 94-90, marked their first title in more than five decades.
Meanwhile, McBride identified actors Ben Stiller and Tracy Morgan as celebrities whose support for the Knicks appeared more consistent, suggesting that their presence at games was widely recognised by the team.
