New York Knicks fans returned to Madison Square Garden on Tuesday, for the team’s first game in front of its people in their stadium for the first time in nearly a year.
There were 2,000 fans presented at the Knicks game against the Golden State Warriors, 352 days after the closure of the iconic stadium due to COVID-19 pandemic.
“It’s great for the league. Safety has to come first in this situation. For us, we know how important fans are to our organization.” Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau.
“It’s something that you’re hopeful it gets turned around. This appears to be a good sign. As long as it’s safe, we’re looking forward to that.
“It’s not the same as a full arena obviously, but it’s still great to have fans in the building. We’re looking forward to the day when the arenas are full again. It’s a start and that’s all you can ask for.” Thibodeau added
New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo earlier this month paved the way for the Knicks to reconnect with their fans by announcing this month that stadiums will be able to reopen their doors at 10% capacity.
“Any large stadium or arena, hockey, basketball, football, soccer, baseball, music shows, performances, any large arena can open on February 23,” Cuomo said.
“We know virus risk is dramatically reduced with precautions in place and rules being followed. I’m confident that we’re ready to do this safely and smoothly.” Cuomo added.
Despite an ugly fourth quarter that saw Warriors shoot just five-of-20, they still managed to hang on to beat the Knicks 114-106.
“So they make it tough, but Steph found a way to score. It was not easy but he found a way and made some huge shots and created a lot of offense for us.” Warriors coach Steve Kerr said.
