The New York Knicks have had plenty to celebrate this December, from being Emirates NBA Cup champions to winning eight of their 10 games.
One of the most laudatory moments of the season, though, came off
the floor.
Most Knicks players earned about $530,000 for winning the NBA Cup. For Josh Hart, Jalen Brunson, and several of the team’s highest-paid players, the next step was obvious. They needed to share part of that money with the people who keep the operation running daily. That includes massage therapists, video staff, PR, and members of the medical and training staffs. These are employees who often put in extended hours without bonus compensation but are essential to the team.
“I don’t think it was a hard decision,” Hart said. “Some of those people don’t get a bonus and they’re working to make sure we’re at the top of the game, no matter who they are. We want to make sure those people are also compensated for their extra time and their efforts.”
During the broadcast of the Knicks game against Indiana, Mike Breen mentioned that several of the Knicks’ highest-paid players, along with head coach Mike Brown, donated a significant portion of their winnings.
One could argue that the Cup payouts mattered more to the players further down the bench. Two-way guys like Kevin McCullar, Trey Jemison, and Tosan Evbuomwan each received approximately $265,467, which is roughly 40% of a two-way salary. That’s a welcome bonus for players living on the margins of NBA rosters.
As an organization, New York does charitable work through the Garden of Dreams Foundation, reaching out to those in need, giving away tickets, connecting players with fans, refurbishing facilities (like basketball courts), etc. On December 19, Jalen Brunson surprised two families at the Knicks’ practice facility with holiday gifts as part of the “Share the Magic” initiative. Earlier in the month, he fulfilled a cancer survivor’s wish by meeting him at a Knicks game.
It feels good to root for a team that gives back and for players who consider the needs of others. It’s an excellent reminder that we should all do the same this holiday season.
Go Knicks.
