Bishop Can Inspire Knicks Fans
A bishop from Long Island, who has a background in college basketball, is leveraging the Knicks’ impressive postseason winning streak to connect New Yorkers with their faith.
“Just like Peter, James, and John were called from their fishing nets, I too was called away from the basketball net,” said Bishop John Burress of the Rockville Center Diocese at St. Agnes Cathedral.
He expressed gratitude towards the Knicks for transforming Madison Square Garden into a place of joy that unites many New Yorkers. “New York Knicks, 2026, we’re so thankful for the magic you’ve brought back,” he remarked.
A former JV point guard at Princeton University in the late 1970s, Burress has long admired the “selflessness” exemplified by the championship-winning Knicks, especially player Bill Bradley. “They influenced me in countless ways,” he reflected on his childhood experience watching the 1970 and 1973 NBA championships.
Burress is delighted that the Knicks recently defeated the Spurs in the NBA Finals, as he senses the end of decades of struggles at the Garden may finally be within reach.
As a dedicated Catholic leader, he teaches nearly 1,000 confirmed Catholics on Long Island to embody the qualities of “humble and merciful” representatives of Christ. He draws inspiration from Knicks player Jalen Brunson, highlighting his skills both on the court and in his character. “I admire Jalen’s selflessness and how he performs his role,” Burress said.
The bishop, who wears No. 11 like Brunson, has kept his love for Catholicism and sports alive, particularly through youth programs on Long Island. He often hands out priest cards that portray him making layups during his college days.
“I think my basketball experience significantly shaped me spiritually,” he noted. The card carries a motivating message, “Holiness and Mission, GO FOR IT!” inspired by Pope John Paul II, who had a knack for sports as well.
Burress believes in connecting athletics to faith—“You have to believe!” he asserts. He reminisces about a letter concerning the Mets from 1969, which helped a young man pursue a coaching opportunity under Jay Wright.
He has a soft spot for the “Nova Knicks,” consisting of players Brunson, Josh Hart, and Mikal Bridges, saying their team chemistry symbolizes the Holy Spirit’s presence within the church’s mission globally.
He referenced a letter from Pope Leo XIV discussing the importance of sports for human spirit, noting how it resonates with the faithful.
Burress even mentioned how the Knicks have started to pop up in his parish life. He’s inspired by the vibrant energy Coach Mike Brown brings to the team and considers how to infuse that into his ministry.
“It’s touching people’s hearts… showing true leadership is really about serving the common good,” he observed.
With excitement, Burress has a message for his team as they return to New York for Game 3: “God bless you all… Go Knicks.”
Reflecting on their journey, he added, “In some beautiful, mystical way, it feels like it’s meant to be. It’s energizing New Yorkers and Knicks fans, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see something special this weekend.”
