Historic Knicks victory: Ariel Hukporti and Pacôme Dadiet's African pride at the heart of the celebration in New York

African pride continued to resonate with center Ariel Hukporti, particularly moved by the historical significance of this victory for his heritage: “It’s amazing. For over fifty years, we hadn’t brought a championship back to New York. We did it. Now we’re here, celebrating with the fans. I went to see the fans too, just to thank them for supporting us all the time. I’m so happy, man. Incredible. The best feeling in the world. I can’t even describe it, to be honest. I’m the first Togolese player, so it means a lot. I got a little emotional towards the end, but now that it’s done, I’m happy. A huge thank you to Togo!”

Young Frenchman Pacôme Dadiet also remembered his roots when celebrating this world title, dedicating his ring to the land of his ancestors: "It's exceptional. I want to thank everyone. Dedicated to Ivory Coast. 225!"

Behind the scenes of Manhattan's frenzy, the indefatigable Josh Hart, when asked what it felt like to finally be a champion, summed up the general feeling with a simple: "Oh my God, amazing!" A relief shared by the most illustrious figures of the Big Apple. Star NBA analyst Stephen A. Smith, a fervent Knicks fan, let out a liberating sigh: "53 years old. It's done!"

As they left the court, an unforgettable scene captured the fervor of the American metropolis. New York rap legend Fat Joe, overcome with joy, shouted at the top of his lungs: "Let's go! New York, we're going home, baby. We're going home. We brought him home!" It was at that precise moment that Knicks point guard Deuce McBride appeared and jumped into his arms. Warmly embracing the rapper amidst the confetti, McBride continued with the same heartfelt cry: "We're going home, champions!"

This year proved absolutely historic and unique: the Knicks also entered into legend by becoming the first team in NBA history to achieve the perfect double, winning both the Emirates NBA Cup and the championship in the same season. Fifty-three years later, the Larry O'Brien trophy is finally about to return to the streets of Manhattan. New York is no longer just the Mecca of basketball because of its passion; it is once again the Mecca because of its crown.