The Knicks have weighed in on an important basketball matter: Taylor Swift is a real fan. The organization would like that on the record.
After reserve guard Tyler Kolek called Swift the team’s “fakest” celebrity fan during an NBA2K stream with Miles McBride, the Knicks issued an actual statement defending her support, according to The Athletic.
“Taylor Swift has been a Knicks fan for many years, has a long history with Madison Square Garden, and we are incredibly appreciative of her support of the organization,” a team spokesperson said.
Well, glad that’s settled. Back to defending the championship.
Kolek had described Swift’s reactions as “a little performative.” McBride warned that her fans wouldn’t appreciate the assessment. The video is no longer live on TikTok.
To be clear, Kolek made the criticism. McBride seemed to recognize that grading the sincerity of one of the world’s most famous entertainers might create more trouble than the conversation was worth.
He appears to have read that correctly. Swift attended Game 4 of the NBA Finals, sitting courtside with Mariska Hargitay and celebrating the Knicks’ win. She also has a lengthy history with the Garden, including performances there.
All perfectly reasonable evidence that she enjoys the Knicks. Whether any of it required an organizational response is another question.
Players say things while playing video games. Celebrities attend sporting events. Fans debate whether those celebrities actually care. Usually, everyone manages to continue with their day.
The Knicks decided this one needed a spokesperson. No word on whether the rest of celebrity row will need to submit references.
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