Madison Square Garden was the epicenter of basketball euphoria on Friday night as the New York Knicks crushed the Boston Celtics 119-81 in Game 6, securing their first trip to the Eastern Conference Finals since 2000. The victory wasn’t just a statement—it was a celebration, and Knicks fans made sure the world knew it.
From the moment the final buzzer sounded, the streets outside MSG transformed into a sea of orange and blue. Fans chanted, danced, and flooded social media with reactions to the historic win. Celebrities, longtime Knicks supporters, and even former players joined in the frenzy, marking the moment as one of the most electrifying in recent franchise history.
Knicks fans haven’t felt this in 25 years 🗣️ pic.twitter.com/oTsIoWAQJk
— New York Post Sports (@nypostsports) May 17, 2025
This view of Knicks fans. 🤯
NYC is truly one of a kind
(via @andruyeung)
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) May 17, 2025
CALL IN THE NATIONAL GUARD!
KNICKS FANS ARE PARTYING ON SEVENTH AVENUE LIKE IT’S 1999! pic.twitter.com/yuBMobFvJj
— ESPN New York (@ESPNNewYork) May 17, 2025
The Knicks wasted no time asserting their dominance, holding Boston to just 37 first-half points and delivering the most lopsided elimination-game loss by a defending champion in NBA history. Josh Hart made history with a triple-double—10 points, 11 rebounds, and 11 assists—becoming the first Knick to achieve the feat in the playoffs since Clyde Frazier in 1972. Jalen Brunson, OG Anunoby, Mikal Bridges, and Karl-Anthony Towns all finished in double figures, showcasing the depth and firepower that propelled New York past the reigning champions.
For Boston, the absence of Jayson Tatum, who suffered a torn Achilles in Game 4, proved too much to overcome. The Celtics struggled to find offensive rhythm, trailing by more than 30 points for most of the fourth quarter. Despite a valiant effort from Jaylen Brown, who finished with 20 points, the Knicks’ relentless defense and offensive efficiency sealed the series.
With the win, New York advances to face the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference Finals, reigniting a classic playoff rivalry. Game 1 is set for Wednesday at Madison Square Garden, giving Knicks fans another chance to bring the energy that has defined this postseason run.
