The Knicks’ celebratory flight took off following their big win.
Audio from air traffic control indicated that the team stayed on a Delta Air Lines charter flight for several hours after securing their first championship in over half a century.
As players like Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart appeared to share in the joy of their triumph, the air traffic controller could be heard congratulating them as they prepared for takeoff from San Antonio.
“I hope they enjoy this moment,” the controller remarked, clearly acknowledging the significance of their victory.
One of the pilots remarked, “Oh, they’re having fun over there,” alluding to the team’s lively celebration in the cabin. “The plane is shaking; there’s a party going on.”
The controller expressed a desire to congratulate the players again before they settled in for the night, but it seemed the newly crowned champions had other plans.
After some time, they arrived at Westchester County Airport, enjoying stunning aerial views of New York City, including sights like the Verrazzano Bridge and the Hudson River.
Another controller shared congratulations from local air traffic teams, highlighting the excitement still buzzing in the air despite their lack of sleep.
“We’re all running on a few hours of shut-eye, but we couldn’t be happier,” he added, with the pilot confirming, “It had just calmed down about half an hour ago.” They were clearly feeling the energy of the moment.
“I think we’re all excited here. We’re on our second box of coffee this morning,” the controller quipped. “On to New York!”
Meanwhile, across the city, Knicks fans were in high spirits, celebrating the victory over the San Antonio Spurs, with festivities stretching into the early hours. While some celebrations led to 63 arrests, the atmosphere was predominantly filled with orange and blue as fervent fans even named their newborns after players, and bus drivers joined in the merriment.
A parade is set for Thursday in Manhattan, which promises to keep the celebration going. It was reported that the team received a hero’s welcome upon touching down in New York, complete with a water cannon salute on the tarmac after a nearly four-hour flight.
