Knicks fans made a bold entrance into rival territory on Friday night as they geared up for Game 3 against the Philadelphia 76ers. They quickly dismissed Joel Embiid’s remarks, who had suggested that the New Yorkers weren’t welcome in Philadelphia.
With the Knicks aiming for a decisive 3-0 lead in the Eastern Conference semifinals, numerous passionate fans chartered buses to Xfinity Mobile Arena, all with the intention to “really irritate the Philadelphia fans.”
“We’re aiming to fill the arena with as many Knicks supporters as we can,” stated Vincent Puleo, co-owner of Big Knicks Energy, who played a key role in organizing the bus trip.
“What I want to convey is that you can’t restrict New Yorkers from coming!” he expressed, adding that he was keen on getting under the skin of the local fans.
This statement followed Embiid’s grievances about a previous playoff matchup, where New York’s enthusiastic supporters had flooded Philadelphia, making it feel like “Madison Square Garden East.”
Embiid had called for Sixers fans to refrain from selling tickets to Knicks fans, in a desperate plea saying, “This is bigger than you. We need you.”
As they approached, bus passengers also expressed their disdain for the Philadelphia star.
“Forget Embiid. He can say whatever he wants. If he thinks he can stop us from getting tickets, he’s mistaken. We’re taking over,” asserted Justin Almonte, 25, from Huntington.
“We’re going to dominate in Philadelphia. This is like home field advantage for our team, even if we’re in another state. We’re aiming for the win.”
Hudson Pearl from Livingston, N.J., commented that Embiid’s appeal reflects the 76ers’ sympathy for their fan base.
“It’s odd to tell people, ‘Don’t sell tickets.’ Fans should just be there automatically,” huffed the 19-year-old, who had even flown to Atlanta for the Knicks playoff opener against the Hawks.
Jalen Brunson led the Knicks to a six-game victory against the Hawks and made a strong showing in the first two games against the 76ers at Madison Square Garden. The buzz around New York was palpable, as hopes built for the franchise’s first championship since 1973.
A ticket for the round trip from Big Knicks Energy cost fans $75, which included transport to Game 3 in Philadelphia and plans for shuttles for Game 4 on Sunday.
Dix Hills resident Jake Bornstein voiced confidence, saying, “I think we’re going to push it and overtake Philadelphia.”
Tip-off for Game 3 is slated for 7 p.m.
