DETROIT, MI - MARCH 23: Jalen Duren #0 of the Detroit Pistons ddribbles the ball as Deandre Ayton #5 of the Los Angeles Lakers plays defense during the game on March 23, 2026 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Chris Schwegler/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
While restricted free agency is a dying concept under the new CBA, the Lakers are positioned to be one of the teams that could still take advantage of the archaic process.
Rarely will a contending team have cap space like the Lakers will this summer, but a perfect storm of circumstances — namely Austin Reaves’ small cap hold — means the Lakers are uniquely positioned. Making matters even better is that the restricted free agent market is a strong one this season, especially when compared to the unrestricted market.
It should be little surprise, then, that the Lakers have checked in on the top names in restricted free agency, as Dave McMenamin of ESPN reported on Tuesday, including Jalen Duren and Walker Kessler.
There are several restricted free agents the Lakers have already done their due diligence on, sources familiar with the team’s thinking told ESPN.
Two of them, Jalen Duren of the Detroit Pistons and Walker Kessler of the Utah Jazz, would satisfy Doncic’s directive to secure an A-list center.
Two others, Peyton Watson of the Denver Nuggets and Tari Eason of the Rockets, are the type of 3-and-D archetypes who any team needs in order to succeed in the modern NBA.
Of the two, Kessler seems more gettable. While Duren had an awful postseason, he did have an All-NBA season preceding that and was a vital piece of Detroit securing the top seed in the Eastern Conference.
The other two names mentioned by McMenamin fill a different hole in the Lakers roster as wings. Watson had a breakout season in Denver and looks set for a big payday that the Nuggets aren’t too eager to give him as things currently stand due to the luxury tax penalties.
Both the team and fans got a firsthand look at Eason in the playoffs this year, but indications seem to be that Houston will pay him this summer since he’s one of the few players on the roster who can shoot.
Even if the Lakers are positioned to take advantage of these situations, restricted free agency remains a difficult and unlikely route to acquire players. But it’s still something worth spending time on, as the Lakers have before the offseason fully begins.
TORONTO, ON - June 20 - Dan Tolzman, Toronto Raptors Assistant General Manager & Vice-President, Player Personnel, speaks to media at the OVO Athletic Centre in Toronto, June 20, 2023. (Andrew Francis Wallace/Toronto Star via Getty Images) | Toronto Star via Getty Images
The Raptors have given us some clues as to who they might end up taking with the 19th and 50th picks in this year’s draft.
The 2026 NBA Draft is shaping up to have one of the most seemingly loaded classes in a long time, with its top three of AJ Dybantsa, Cameron Boozer, and Darryn Peterson jostling for first place in a contest that is unlike that of many other years. With the Raptors having received only a low first-rounder along with a second, Toronto’s expectations for this draft have been tempered, but some clarity has emerged regarding the prospects that the Raptors will be targeting.
Earlier this week, Raptors Assistant General Manager Dan Tolzman shed some light on what criteria the franchise is using to make their decisions to evaluate potential draft picks, as well as some thoughts around team construction.
Best man on the board
There has been debate as to whether the Raptors are more in need of a guard or a centre amidst the glut of forwards they currently have. One aspect of criticism towards the Raptors’ selection of Collin Murray-Boyles (over centre Khaman Maluach) was that the Raptors were simply adding players that lacked value to the team because of their position. But, that seems to have more than worked out, with the Raptors picking up an All-Rookie talent who’s been capable of playing the 5 in small ball lineups.
Tolzman has clarified that this philosophy has not changed, and that this year, Raptors will not draft for fit, rather, taking the best player available at 19th pick.
Big man not a sure selection
While the Raptors will have two opportunities to add to their big man roster (and likely will choose to do so), that first round draft pick may not be the centre that the team is so desperate for. However, the AGM has noted that the Raptors are certainly aware of their deficiency, and could look to free agency to bolster their ranks, rather than the draft.
There are a number of big names set to enter free agency, ranging from grizzled veterans like Nikola Vučević and Jusuf Nurkić, to guys on competitive teams potentially looking to change up their rosters, like Robert Williams III and Mitchell Robinson. The Raptors may opt to target some of these players rather than take a lesser prospect with a pick too high in the name of fit.
Workouts complete
The Raptors have, at this point, already worked out everyone who they’ve wanted to, and are currently evaluating those prospects internally. He added, however, that workouts were only a part of the process in making a draft pick. As of June 11th, Josh Lewenberg of TSN has noted the following names as having worked out for the Raptors.
The Raptors continue to hold pre-draft workouts. Among the prospects they've hosted so far, per sources: Meleek Thomas, Bennett Stirtz, Zuby Ejiofor, Keyshawn Hall, Izaiyah Nelson, Peter Suder, Tyler Bilodeau, Michael Ajayi, Bruce Thornton. They own picks # 19 & 50 on June 23/24.
The NBA Draft is set to begin less than a week from now, and the Raptors have indicated that it is still too early to tell what picks might be available to trade up or down to. “We really like 19,” Tolzman stated, and he also noted that there was “a premium you were probably going to pay” if the a team tried to jump ahead in such a hyped up draft.
He clarified, however, that in the next few days, more information would emerge as to what the market for trading picks might look like, but that information wasn’t on the table yet.
The NBA Draft is scheduled for June 23rd and 24th. The Raptors will draft in both the first and second round at picks 19 and 50.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JUNE 18: Jalen Brunson #11 and Karl-Anthony Towns #32 of the New York Knicks celebrate with the Larry O'Brien Championship Trophy during the New York Knicks Championship ticker tape parade and victory rally celebrating winning the 2026 NBA Finals on June 18, 2026 in New York City. The New York Knicks defeated the San Antonio Spurs in five games to win their first NBA Championship in 53 years. (Photo by Angelina Katsanis/Getty Images) | Getty Images
It’s been one hell of a week for the Knicks and their fans.
From winning their first championship in 53 years ago last Saturday, to the countless media appearances earlier this week, it’s been a multi-day celebration of the team, the players, and their incredible accomplishment. And on a very hyped up cloudy Thursday morning, all of culminated in a what may go down as the most passion-filled and memorable parade in the city’s history. But before we start turning the page on the memorable and historic season and look ahead to the offseason, let’s quickly relive the glorious parade.
As I’m sure many of you saw, the streets were packed long before the parade even began. There were pictures and videos of fans lining up as early as 4:00am. And by 7:00am, the entirety of downtown Manhattan looked like pure pandemonium. Streets were packed to the brim as people lined up shoulder to shoulder in queues that reportedly weren’t moving at all. The NYPD, even in their great numbers, looked outnumbered and under resourced. And people were stuck underground in subway stations with nowhere to go.
At 7:28, the NYPD announced that the viewing pens were already full and that no more people would be allowed into the viewing area. So fans ended up climbing street signs, and lamp posts, and even found themselves on top of scaffolding. And when those spots quickly became occupied, supporters fled to adjacent streets just to get a taste of the insanity ready to unfold.
In true New Yorker, and Knicks fashion, the parade started late. Despite the scheduled 10:00am starting time, floats didn’t get going until a some time had passed. At around 10:10, the players finally started to arrive via busses and made their way to their respective floats. Karl-Anthony Towns made a few fans’ days by allowing them to touch the Eastern Conference Championship trophy. Rick Brunson carried the Larry O’Brien trophy. Mikal Bridges, as expected, was seen with his dog while wearing a Pacome Dadiet jersey, and Mitchell Robinson showed up in his truck as promised.
Mitchell Robinson's famous truck is decked out and ready for the Knicks' Championship Parade 😍 pic.twitter.com/MI2Ld3L1g2
Some of the key players like Jalen Brunson, Towns, and Josh Hart had their own floats. They were accompanied by friends and family while Brunson’s float also had Spike Lee, and Mariska Hargitay. Other players rode with teammates. And many of the former players shared a float together. Carmelo Anthony, Larry Johnson, John Starks, Stephon Marbury, Steve Novak, and even Jerome “Junkyard Dog” Williams, among others, were seen together, while Waly “Clyde” Frazier and Patrick Ewing got their own cars, deservedly so.
Head coach Mike Brown was seen early on with a Knicks shirt that had a number 10 on the back with the word weeks under it, referencing the 10 week sacrifice James Dolan asked his team to make. Towns, who shared a float with Zohran Mamdani (also seen with Jordyn Woods’ lucky handbag) for parts of the parade, was seen dancingalong to Knicks fan, Fat Joe’s “Lean Back” early on. Trey Jemison III was tasked with being the trophy bearer for the NBA Cup trophy. Ariel Hukporti, one of the main stars of the post-Finals press conference, took center stage as he interviewed MSG’s Alan Hahn. Hart lit a cigar, hopped of the float, and walked along the edge of the street to celebrate with the fans with DMX’s “Ruff Ryder’s Anthem” blasting in the background.
All while that was going on, Tyler Kolek was involved in an unexpected turn of events. The second year guard was celebrating with the fans but when he tried to get back onto the float, he was stopped by security after being mistaken for being a fan.
Brunson, known as a stoic and quiet person publicly showed his lighter side all day. When interviewed by MSG’s Monica McNutt, he was seen singing, and even threw a slight jab during the City Hall portion of the ceremony (more on that later).
Landry Shamet, a known photography hobbyist, made sure to take plenty of pictures during the parade. Bridges brought along a vintage camcorder to record everything. Jose Alvarado, Jordan Clarkson, were very obviously hyped up as they took turns addressing the crowd with mics, running up to them to high five them and shake hands.
Jeremy Sochan spent pretty much the entirety of the ceremony shirtless. And Deuce McBride was met with very loud and deep “Deeuuuuce” chants every step of the way. And what about OG Anunoby? Well, he celebrated exactly how everyone expected. Calmly, and quietly. New York’s playoff hero stood at the very front of his float with subtle waves to both sides, but never leaving the float or doing anything drastic.
The Knicks finally won a championship and this couple decided it was finally time to get married.
After a 53-year engagement, they are tying the knot on parade day, with the bride (@with_lovestephaniedenise) wearing a custom dress she designed herself. pic.twitter.com/5ZIQlFA8fu
When the players and coaches finally reached City Hall, the presentation began with a passionate speech from the mayor. Mamdani perfectly encapsulated what it has meant to be a Knicks fan, just how hard the times have been, why this team perfectly personified the city, and much more. He shouted out recent former players Julius Randle, RJ Barrett, Immanuel Quickley, and former coach, Tom Thibodeau. He brought back memories of Willis Reed, Bernard King, Ewing, Starks, Anthony, Jeremy Lin, and Nate Robinson . But even reached all the way back and pulled out names like Ronaldo Balkman, Mardy Collins, Langston Galloway, and recalled Toney Douglas’ at the time, franchise record-setting nine threes in one game.
here is Mamdani's entire speech at the Knicks parade, which is easily the best speech I've ever heard at an event of this sort pic.twitter.com/FiTxy81Yq3
The mayor then harped on how the city was brought together, not by force, but by “pure, unfiltered joy”. He then fired up the crowd by bringing up the 0.4% chance the Knicks had to complete the 29-point game four comeback against the Spurs and how it defined the ability of each player to do the unthinkable and stand up to the challenge, much like the very city it represents. “What is New York if not your back up against the wall? What is New York if not 99.6% of the world stacked against you? Who are New Yorkers if not people who hear those odds and smile? Who look at a 0.4% chance of success and ask, why are you giving me a head start? This is our city. This is our team. For 53 years, we watched. For 53 years we waited. Now, we’ve won.”
It was an inspiring speech to say the least that got fans emotional. It reminded them how difficult the task was, and just how impressive the task was. But it also was yet another chance to appreciate this team for all of the handwork, the sacrifice, and the incredible way in which they represented the city and the fans.
After a loud round of cheers and applause, Brunson took it all in before thanking Dolan, and the front office for believing in him. He followed it up by thanking his teammates for believing in him, and then thanked the coaching staff and training staff. And before continuing with the rest of his speech, Brunson let out a very relatable, “Damn, New York we did it. We really did it.”
But maybe in the highlight of the entire parade, Brunson finally addressed the elephant in the room in his own way. He didn’t call any particular former WNBA players, reporters, or pundits out. Yet Brunson did have something to say about all of the doubters. “There’s a lot of people who have a lot of negative stuff to say.” Brunson said. “There’s a lot of people who have their own opinions. But when you prove them wrong, you don’t have to say (expletive) to them. Nah, they don’t deserve it.”
The historic and memorable celebration ended with Alicia Keyes performing a live rendition of “Empire State of Mind”. To some, the championship had felt surreal before today. To others, they’ve let it sink in since Saturday. Regardless of where you land on that spectrum though, today, despite the chaos and the unfortunately imperfect handling of the parade, was a fit celebration. It was a the ultimate toast. And a thank you to a team that truly was New York.
While I’m not sure how others felt exactly, I will say, there was a sense of bittersweetness. The players and fans will still likely celebrate for a while longer, as they should. After a 53 year wait, the celebration should be loud and long. But it also felt like the beginning of the end, at least for the 2025-26 season. The team may look different in a matter of a few months. And while this championship will be enough for many of the fans, next season brings on a new set of challenges and goals that will ultimately reawaken a lot of the same feelings of stress, anxiety and hunger. But for now, as the mayor, and the players have continued to say, enjoy it folks. Bask in the glory. Talk your trash. And enjoy every second of it.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - MAY 11: Luka Doncic #77 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts from the bench against the Oklahoma City Thunder in Game Four of the Second Round of the NBA Western Conference Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena on May 11, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The build-up to the Lakers’ 2026 offseason started before Luka Dončić even joined the Lakers, but his arrival placed a larger microscope over what is about to unfold.
After a season-and-a-half of cobbling together pieces to try to maximize Luka as best as they can, the Lakers’ front office has books as clean as they’ll ever have, multiple draft picks to trade and a massive opportunity in front of them. Now, they head into a summer likely to bring big changes.
While it’s the likes of President of Basketball Operations Rob Pelinka and those around him who will be under pressure, this will be a collaborative effort between the front office and Luka. As Dave McMenamin of ESPN reported on Tuesday, even with Luka back in Slovenia this summer, the two sides have stayed in regular contact.
Doncic is spending the summer in Slovenia with his daughters, Gabriela and Olivia, but sources close to him told ESPN he is in “constant communication” with Lakers president of basketball operations and general manager Rob Pelinka and coach JJ Redick.
The problem is that, 16 months later, the Lakers are still searching for that center. And, as reported by McMenamin, that remains at the top of Luka’s wish list.
While the 27-year-old Doncic is preparing for another season squarely in his prime, he has made one roster preference clear to Pelinka and Redick, sources said.
It’s the same one he made in the days after he first arrived in Los Angeles 16 months ago.
“Luka’s first and foremost desire is an A-list center,” the source said.
It really feels like the Lakers have to move past the days of searching for the bargain option at center and pay up to get a top option. Having a genuine, lob-catching, rim-protecting center that Luka can get the best out of not only opens up the offense for him, but the team as a whole. It really changes the identity of the team and should be not just Luka’s top priority, but the team’s as well.
There are any number of ways the team can go about acquiring that type of player, whether through free agency, trade or the draft. But this summer has been a long time coming and the Lakers should be well-prepared for what’s to come.
The Knicks championship parade made its way from Battery Park through the Canyon of Heroes, culminating with a ceremony outside City Hall.
There, Mayor Zohran Mamdani, Knicks owner James Dolan, president Leon Rose, and head coach Mike Brown — among others — thanked Knicks fans, players, executives, and every one else who helped along the way as the Knicks ended a 53-year championship drought.
Here are some of the top quotes from Thursday's ceremony...
Mayor Zohran Mamdani
"They give the Spurs a 99.6 percent chance of winning [Game 4 when the Knicks trailed by 20 in the fourth quarter.] A 99.6 percent chance of tying up the series 2-2, of reclaiming the momentum with the next game in San Antonio. A 99.6 percent chance of silencing the Garden, of another year of watching and waiting. But there is one thing that the pundits just don’t get about this team, that they just don’t get about this city. It is in that .4 percent that we go to work.
"It is in that .4 percent that Jalen Brunson, the same guy that so many said was too small, proves that not only is he good enough, he is the new standard of greatness. It is in that .4 percent that OG Anunoby watches the ball float from the top of the arc and start running toward the basket, fingers reaching toward the heavens. It is in that .4 percent that Karl-Anthony Towns finds the strength to mourn his mother and still grab rebound after rebound, make block after block. It is in that .4 percent that Jose Alvarado shows every kid growing up in public housing that a son of Brooklyn and Queens can win for every one of the five boroughs. It is in that .4 percent that [Mitchell Robinson] breaks his finger before Game 1 and says ‘Go get the tape.’ It’s in that .4 percent that Josh Hart grabs rebounds that break teams and Mikal Bridges proves he was worth every single draft pick, that Landry Shamet pulls up from downtown, that every one of these 18 players transforms the franchise, that Mike Brown keeps believing.
"Most of all, it’s in that .4 percent that the Knicks do what New Yorkers have always done when we are told something is impossible. We find a way. We win."
James Dolan
"Thank you for supporting our team. We're gonna keep working to bring you even better basketball — although it's hard to imagine that we get much better than this — but we will, right fellas?"
Leon Rose
"Last and most importantly, to the greatest fans in the world, we did it for you. Your support in every arena, it felt like a home game wherever we played, and all over the world has been unbelievable, and we hope to see you again very soon."
Mike Brown
"I’m proud of everybody for helping accomplish this great feat. The energy today and all around New York is off the charts, and I want to thank you all for it. Let’s keep this energy going, baby, because this championship is about you guys. This is New York City’s championship.
"We had our ups, we definitely had our downs, and our group stayed connected through those times. … You saw the belief, the belief in each other."
WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 27: Zuby Ejiofor #24 of the St. John's Red Storm reacts after dunking against the Duke Blue Devils during the second half in the Sweet Sixteen of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Capital One Arena on March 27, 2026 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Depending on how the board falls, St. John’s big man Zuby Ejiofor could be available when New York is on the clock on draft night next week. Should the Knicks consider him with their 24th or 31st selection?
Projected Draft Range: Late first to very early second round (25–30)
The Numbers
Ejiofor became one of college basketball’s most productive frontcourt players during his final season at St. John’s, his third with the Red Storm. He helped lead the squad to the outright Big East regular-season title and Big East Tournament championship while earning Big East Player of the Year, Big East Defensive Player of the Year and Big East Tournament Most Outstanding Player honors.
The St. John’s standout averaged 16.3 points, 7.3 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 2.1 blocks and 1.2 steals in 30 minutes per game, and experienced quite the jump from his prior seasons. During his senior-year campaign, Ejiofor’s assists climbed from 1.6 to 3.5 per game, while his blocks rose from 1.4 to 2.1, highlighting his growth as a passer, quicker-processor and defensive playmaker.
ESPN NBA Draft analyst Jeremy Woo has already connected the dots between Ejiofor and the Knicks, saying, “I think he’s someone the Knicks should look at. I think he would fit. I could see him fitting in really well [with the Knicks].”
Skills That Pay the Bills
Motor and Physicality: Ejiofor plays with the kind of force that should translate immediately to the pro ranks and give him a solid role as soon as he joins a team. He can rebound, runs the floor, is able to absorb contact, contests shots, and does the dirty work without needing many touches of the ball.
Defensive Versatility: At 245 pounds with a 7’2” wingspan and a 38-inch max vertical, Ejiofor has enough strength, length and explosiveness to defend multiple frontcourt looks. He can protect the rim, switch in spots and make plays in space.
Rebounding: Ejiofor attacked the glass stubbornly and led Division I in offensive rebounding in 2024-25. He is able to generate extra possessions and doesn’t mind playing through contact.
Solid Passing: The passing leap is one of the most interesting parts of Ejiofor’s profile. He averaged 3.5 assists per game last season and showed legitimate feel finding cutters, shooters and weak-side options when defenses rotated.
Improving Touch: Ejiofor is not a proven shooter yet, but his 71.8% free-throw mark and improved shooting at the NBA Draft Combine give some reason for optimism, as he worked to show his comfort on midrange and three-point shots at the event.
Concerns
Tweener Size: Ejiofor measured just 6’7.5” barefoot, which is short for an NBA center. His wingspan and strength help, but the size question is real against bigger, true NBA fives.
Limited Shooting: The jumper is still theoretical, as he shot 30.5% from three as a senior, and his NBA value would rise significantly if he became a reliable corner or pick-and-pop threat. Just not there yet.
Offensive Role: Ejiofor does not project as a self-creator, but more of a finisher with a knack for hustling. Many of his baskets came through put-backs, dump-offs, rim runs, short rolls, and all sorts of low-key-hustle plays. That can work, even more within the Knicks roster, but it’d require Mike Brown to hit all the right lineup buttons.
Processing Consistency: The passing growth is real, but he still goes with the obvious read or forces plays at times.
Age: Ejiofor is also considerably older than many prospects—and virtually all of those projected to be first-rounders—and still needs some offensive refinement.
The Knicks Fit
I don’t need convincing for the Knicks to make this pick with any of their first two selections. See, the Knicks are coming off winning their first title since 1973, St. John’s plays home games at Madison Square Garden, New York had the chance of a lifetime to grab one of their own in legendary Red Storm forward Ron Artest… but they botched it. Nearly 30 years later, Ejiofor would help the Knicks fix that wrong if they complete the homecoming in a move that fans would absolutely love.
Mind you, Ejiofor would not enter the organization with Artest-level expectations, but the connection is real, and there might not be a better moment for the organization to kill two NYC birds with one NBA Draft stone. Ejiofor developed under Rick Pitino (name rings a bell, too?), became the face of St. John’s breakthrough season, and built a reputation on toughness, defense and constant effort. Sounds familiar?
Ejiofor’s profile fits the Knicks’ identity to a T. New York has Karl-Anthony Towns as its starting center and reportedly wants to keep Mitchell Robinson, although James Dolan doesn’t seem too excited about the possibility. If Robinson leaves, Ejiofor becomes a logical frontcourt target and immediate replacement in the rotation. If Robinson stays, Ejiofor could still develop as a rugged backup big who brings energy, rebounding, and defensive versatility, allowing the Knicks to let Ariel Hukporti/Mohamed Diawara go—or move them—if they need to clear some financial room.
ESPN national director of recruiting Paul Biancardi also framed the Knicks’ fit around the franchise’s identity, writing, “[Ejiofor] plays with an edge, and that’s how the Knicks won a championship, right? They play with an edge, and coming out of St. John’s, with (head coach) Rick Pitino, that’s a great story for you and a lot of people. I think it’s a fit.”
NBA Comparison
Best-Case Comparison: Montrezl Harrell with a passing feel
Median Outcome: Xavier Tillman
Low-End Outcome: Kenneth Faried without elite rebounding
The Verdict
Think twice at 24th: The decision here would depend on who else is available. If a higher-upside guard, wing, or true stretch big slips, New York might do better than drafting Ejiofor, given his lack of size for a center and his unproven jumper are legitimate concerns. That said, there is a very real possibility this kid gets drafted within the 25-30 range, so the Knicks might miss out if they pass on the chance.
Don’t hesitate at 31st: If Zuby Ejiofor is still available when the Knicks pick early in the second round, the fit makes too much sense to ignore. Ejiofor brings the toughness, defensive activity, and rebounding the Knicks have build their roster around and might need if Mitch leaves. He also comes with some passing chops and a clear role-player mentality that wouldn’t disrupt the core. The Red Storm connection is also a bonus coming, let alone with the program and Ejiofor coming off a great season at St. John’s, giving the Knicks a rare homecoming story right after winning the championship. Make it happen!
Sochan appeared during the Knicks’ NBA Finals parade down the Canyon of Heroes and was on the podium without a shirt as he accepted the key to the city.
Mayor Zohran Mamdani laughs as he hugs a shirtless Jeremy Sochan. NY Post YouTube
When introduced, Mayor Zohran Mamdani gave Sochan a big hug, laughing that Sochan was indeed still shirtless as he kept up the bit.
Multiple members of the team were shown laughing in the background, including reserve guard Tyler Kolek, as Sochan posed for a picture with the mayor of New York City.
Sochan has seemingly been shirtless since the title-clinching Game 5, after which Sochan was seen wearing goggles and partying at the Frost Bank Center in San Antonio.
A shirtless Jeremy Sochan poses next to Mayor Zohran Mamdani at the Knicks NBA Finals parade.
At one point, Finals MVP Jalen Brunson was being interviewed by “TODAY” anchor Craig Melvin when a shirtless Sochan nearly slipped and knocked over an oversized mock Larry O’Brien Trophy.
Here’s the latest coverage on the Knicks’ historic ticker-tape championship parade
Brunson flinched and had to stop his interview to make sure their reserve center didn’t break anything.
Jeremy Sochan celebrates an NBA Championship shirtless. NBAE via Getty Images
Sochan didn’t play much for the Knicks, appearing in just 16 regular-season games, though he did get in two NBA Finals games during the historic Game 4 comeback and the series-clinching Game 5 win against the Spurs.
He also appeared earlier in the playoffs in some mop-up duty games earlier in the playoffs against the Hawks and 76ers.
Jalen Brunson gave his most pointed dig yet at his doubters.
The Knicks star delivered a message to the haters at City Hall after the team paraded through the Canyon of Heroes on Thursday morning as they celebrated winning their first NBA title in 53 years.
As Brunson stepped up to the microphone, he received “MVP” chants from the crowd.
Jalen Brunson says when people with negative opinions are proven wrong, 'You don't have to say s–t to them!' pic.twitter.com/jFNxDGMwMO
— New York Post Sports (@nypostsports) June 18, 2026
He went on to make a speech, emphasizing he “wouldn’t trade this for the world” and concluded with a message to the doubters.
“There’s a lot of people that have a lot of negative stuff to say. There’s a lot of people who have a lot of opinions. But when you prove them wrong, you really don’t have to say s–t to them,” Brunson said.
Jalen Brunson speaks during the Knicks’ championship celebration at City Hall on June 18, 2026. AFP via Getty Images
The comment received a boom of cheers from the crowd and Brunson opened his mouth as if he was going to add to his statement, but instead he said, “Nah, they don’t deserve it. Appreciate y’all. Thank you!”
Here’s the latest coverage on the Knicks’ historic ticker-tape championship parade
In the press conference following the 94-90 Game 5 victory in San Antonio, the three-time All-Star was asked about those comments and gave a direct answer, similar to what he said Thursday.
“I didn’t respond to them then, I’m damn sure not gonna respond to them now,” he said.
Knicks guard Jalen Brunson #11, with Mariska Hargitay and his dad Rick, with the Championship trophy riding on a float during a ticker-tape parade along Broadway through Lower Manhattan’s historic Canyon of Heroes.
Charles Wenzelberg / New York Post
Critics said Brunson isn’t a “1A” player because doesn’t fit the usual type. He isn’t a large guard like Michael Jordan or Kobe Bryant nor a big guy like Shaquille O’Neal or Tim Duncan, as traditional examples.
The biggest critic with that take on Brunson has been Aces head coach Becky Hammon.
Knicks guard Jalen Brunson #11, carrying the Championship trophy along Broadway through Lower Manhattan’s historic Canyon of Heroes. Erik Pendzich / BACKGRID
He was named Finals MVP after scoring 45 points in the championship-winning Game 5 on Saturday and proved to be a unanimous selection for the Bill Russell Trophy among 11 voters.
Brunson is one of only three other players to score 45 or more points in a closeout Finals game.
During Thursday’s parade, he soaked in the title win, lifting the Larry O’Brien championship trophy among crazed Knicks fans in a packed lower Manhattan alongside wife Ali and daughter Jordyn, who turns 2 in July.
Prior to upcoming NBA draft, Golden State Warriors' general manager Mike Dunleavy addresses the media at Chase Center in San Francisco on Monday, June 23, 2025. (Photo by Scott Strazzante/San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images)
The Stein Line’s Jake Fischer reports on the possibility of a Trey Murphy III trade between the Warriors and Pelicans.
ESPN’s Brian Windhorst gives context to Wizards’ Trae Young declining his $48.97 million player option to become a free agent.
The Golden State Warriors are entering the final stages of their pre-draft process with the 2026 NBA Draft less than a week away. On Wednesday, general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. held a press conference to discuss the draft, the team’s offseason priorities, and how the front office plans to approach the No. 11 overall pick.
One notable takeaway from Dunleavy’s presser was his insistence that the Warriors expect to add at least one player from this year’s draft. The 2026 class is widely considered one of the strongest in recent years, making this an important opportunity for Golden State to add young talent. While they still have a championship-caliber player in Stephen Curry, he will be 39 years old next March, underscoring the need to add more talent and depth to a roster that finished 37-45 last season and missed the playoffs.
Whether that means drafting at No. 11, trading back for additional picks, or making another move that allows them to add talent elsewhere, Dunleavy made it clear the Warriors will explore every avenue available to improve the roster.
Warriors GM Mike Dunleavy Jr. feels fairly confident the team will keep the 11th pick as of right now:
“I just feel like, as strong as this draft is, we should probably come out of this draft with a player, unless you know if something falls into our lap, trade-wise.” pic.twitter.com/kuU7fPFtQf
“I’ve had conversations with kind of all of our free agents,” Dunleavy said during a Wednesday news conference. “Their representatives. I think we’re in a good place with all of them … as far as Draymond and KP, Draymond has the player option, but we’re in communication with his group. Then same thing with KP. Both guys, I think, we value, we want here, and we see them as a kind of (a) piece of the puzzle next season.”
To that end, league sources say, Ament has decided not to work out for the Warriors, who hold the No. 11 pick.
Golden State’s selection has proven to be a spot on the board that various rival teams have begun to pinpoint as a potential trade opportunity … partly because New Orleans is no longer hanging up on teams calling to inquire about two-way wing Trey Murphy III and the Warriors’ longstanding interest in Murphy has been well-chronicled.
The Pelicans are known to “want a lot” for Murphy, as one interested team told The Stein Line last week, but they will at least listen. The Pelicans, furthermore, are also known to be very interested in acquiring a lottery pick for next week’s festivities. New Orleans, at present, only holds No. 58 at the end of next Wednesday’s second round.
Big pre-draft workout day for the Warriors tomorrow with Brayden Burries, Labaron Philon Jr. and Hannes Steinbach coming through Chase Center @NBCSWarriors
The parade begins at 10 a.m. ET with the route starting near Bowling Green in lower Manhattan before going north along Broadway and ending at City Hall. A ceremony will take place at City Hall, and singer Alicia Keys will perform her hit “Empire State of Mind,” which she recorded in 2009 with Jay-Z, following the parade.
Here are all the top sights and sounds from the Knicks’ championship parade.
"He's going to re-sign with the Wizards, likely on a three-year, very large contract."@Windhorstespn gives an update on what could be next for Trae Young 🏀 pic.twitter.com/rQBcWPgczD
Through it all, Wilson never ducked the smoke that comes with being a young superstar. He told reporters he changed his phone background to the McDonald’s All-American Game ahead of an early season showdown with Kansas, because Jayhawks super freshman Darryn Peterson didn’t pass him the ball at the event. He kept a personal “kill list” of opponents he wanted to dominate, and he consistently checked names off the list all year.
As he enters the 2026 NBA Draft, Wilson is embracing the pressure that comes with being a likely top-4 pick.
“I’m going to change their franchise,” Wilson said of the team who drafts him at the combine. “I’m going to change the culture of their franchise and I’m going to change the city, honestly. I’m a culture changer. I did the same thing at North Carolina.”
Follow@unstoppablebaby on X for all the latest news on the Golden State Warriors.
Jalen Brunson has been proving people wrong his entire life and last Saturday he added another accomplishment to his mantle when he led the Knicks to their first championship in 53 years after toppling the San Antonio Spurs in five games.
It was on the back of Brunson's 45-point barrage in Game 5 that steered New York to another one of its notorious comebacks and sealed his case to be NBA Finals MVP — his third MVP trophy this season after taking home Eastern Conference Finals MVP as well as NBA Cup MVP earlier in the year.
On a grander scale, the point guard's performance on the biggest stage cemented himself as a Knicks all-time great, which was on full display during Thursday's championship parade.
Following speeches by NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani, Knicks owner James Dolan, team president Leon Rose, head coach Mike Brown and others, Brunson was summoned to the podium as the only player to give a speech and received a raucous welcome — even a standing ovation by some — from fans gathered in front of City Hall before chants of "MVP! MVP!" broke out.
The Finals MVP who just finished his fourth season in New York by bringing a championship back to the city began his speech by thanking the front office for "believing in a kid no one else would," his teammates for "giving [him] confidence every single day" and his family for "their sacrifice" for without, nothing would be possible.
Brunson also made sure to shout out the fans, who he admitted can be his biggest critics at times.
"Most importantly, thank you to the fans. I’m not gonna lie, y’all are some pretty hard critics, but we appreciate it," he said. "At least I do. Appreciate it a lot."
Brunson gave himself some time to reflect on the moment while also revealing he had no doubts he and the Knicks would pull it out.
"Damn, we really did it dog. Somehow, someway, I knew we were gonna find a way to get this done," he said.
To close out his speech, Brunson alluded to the haters, of which there are plenty, who have publicly spoken ill of him or his size or his talent in the past. And while the message was clearly directed toward those people, the essence of what he said could apply to anybody going through something similar.
"Lastly, there’s a lot of people that have a lot of negative stuff to say, there’s a lot of people who have a lot of opinions," he said. "But when you prove them wrong you don’t have to say s--t to them. Nah, they don’t deserve it, they don’t deserve it. Appreciate you all, thank you."
Knicks guard Tyler Kolek had a run-in with police after they seemingly mistook him for a fan during the team’s championship parade in New York on Thursday.
The 25-year-old Kolek was running along the parade route and greeting fans while holding a Michelob Ultra in one hand when he was stopped by two police officers who grabbed him.
One officer was seen shaking his head, appearing to say “no,” while another turned him around an pointed for him to leave the area.
That’s when others intervened to inform the officers that Kolek was a member of the championship team.
The officers backed down after that.
Kolek, who did not look happy, was seen saying something to them as he ran off.
Knicks guard Tyler Kolek was stopped by police after they mistook him for a fan during the team’s championship parade in New York on Thursday, June 18, 2026. X/Kimberley MartinKnicks guard Tyler Kolek was stopped by police after they mistook him for a fan during the team’s championship parade in New York on Thursday, June 18, 2026. X/Kimberley Martin
“I swear I’m on the team bro,” Kolek wrote on X, responding to post that said, “security almost tackled” him.
At one point, Kolek went live on Instagram and showed himself holding the Knicks’ NBA Cup trophy that they won after defeating the Spurs 124-113 in the league’s mid-season tournament in December.
“This my real trophy right here. Y’all got that one I got this one,” Kolek told Knicks point guard Jalen Brunson, who was named MVP of the NBA Finals, referring to the Larry O’Brien championship trophy.
“This my real trophy right here. Y’all got that one I got this one”
Tyler Kolek to Jalen Brunson while holding the NBA Cup trophy
Kolek did not play in any of the 2026 NBA Finals games, in which New York won four of five against the Spurs to clinch their first championship in 53 years.
He was a second round pick out of Marquette by the Portland Trail Blazers in the 2024 NBA Draft.
Kolek spent the 2024-25 season with the Westchester Knicks, the Knicks’ G-League affiliate team.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JUNE 18: Zohran Mamdani, New York City Mayor and OG Anunoby of the New York Knicks are seen on a float during the New York Knicks Championship ticker tape parade and victory rally celebrating winning the 2026 NBA Finals on June 18, 2026 in New York City. The New York Knicks defeated the San Antonio Spurs in five games to win their first NBA Championship in 53 years. (Photo by Angelina Katsanis/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Indiana men’s basketball program alumnus OG Anunoby helped lead the New York Knicks to their first NBA championship in over five decades this month, earning his second title in the process.
The Knicks were honored on Thursday in New York City with a championship parade that culminated at New York City Hall, where Anunoby was one of multiple players to receive a key to the city from Mayor Zohran Mamdani:
One striking image sums up the jubilation of Knicks fans — and the adoration they have for team leader Jalen Brunson as the Big Apple celebrated the championship hometown team Thursday.
A photo snapped along the parade route shows throngs of revelers reaching out to the Knicks star point guard as he held the Larry O’Brien Trophy at the celebration along the Canyon of Heroes.
Several cops surrounded Brunson, who held the Larry O’Brien Tropy while fans held their hands high eager to snap a photo of greatness up close.
Jalen Brunson, upper right, of the NBA Champion New York Knicks carries the trophy for fans during the ticker-tape parade on Broadway. AP Photo/Richard DrewJalen Brunson gets closer to fans while holding the Larry O’Brien Trophy. Erik Pendzich/Shutterstock
Brunson led the Knickerbockers over the San Antonio Spurs, notching the NBA Finals in five games to send the city in a frenzy.
An estimated 2 million fans flooded lower Manhattan and partied like they’ve waited 53 years for a championship with plenty of heartbreak, humiliation and hopelessness along the way.
The parade kicked off at 10 a.m., but pens for viewing had hit capacity hours before.
When Brunson rose to talk at the City Hall ceremony, he received a standing ovation from attendees who chanted “M-V-P.”
“Most importantly, thank you to the fans. Not gonna lie though, ya’ll are some pretty hard critics,” he said as the crowd chuckled. “But we appreciate it, at least I do. I appreciate it a lot.”
With five days left until the first round of the 2026 NBA Draft, the Warriors on Thursday got a look at three very different point guards they could be eyeing.
Brayden Burries, Labaron Philon Jr. and Bennett Stirtz showcased their skills on the Warriors’ practice court as part of a big pre-draft workout that also included Washington star big man Hannes Steinbach and Baylor wing Cameron Carr. Stirtz and Carr were late additions to Thursday’s workout and weren’t available to the media, unlike Burries and Philon, as well as Steinbach.
Thriving in Northern California is nothing new to Burries. Down the road at Golden 1 Center, home of the Sacramento Kings, Burries scored an Open Division record 44 points in the state championship to beat San Francisco’s Archbishop Riordan High School and cap off his prep career. During that playoff run, Burries also formed a relationship with Warriors legend and possible future teammate Draymond Green when the two met after a game.
On Thursday, Green was at his home court rooting Burries on. Playing next to respected vets is something Burries hopes to have from his first NBA home.
“He was talking to me before, and then during the workout he was just, like, encouraging me,” Burries said Thursday to reporters. “Little things like that, I feel it’s pretty cool, because he doesn’t have to be doing that. He could be gone. But he’s just helping me, telling me to continue to push through. And then after the workout we chopped it up a little bit.
“I feel like he’s a great vet, honestly.”
Green always has loved to dive deep into the draft and even offer his opinion to the front office. If he pushes for Burries, it’s easy to see why.
In line with other strong young guards like Dylan Harper, Burries has the frame to thrive at the next level. He’s 215 pounds of pure muscle on his 6-foot-4 frame, and it shows on the court. Burries isn’t great at beating defenders off the dribble, but he explodes off his feet and had the fourth-highest standing vertical at the combine (35 inches) and the fourth-fastest lane agility run (10.59 seconds). Those kinds of bunnies help make Burries a great rebounding guard, too.
He also can let it fly from deep as a multi-level scorer. Burries shot 39.1 percent on threes while taking 4.6 attempts per game at Arizona. A single label of point guard or shooting guard doesn’t describe his game enough.
“Something my dad always told me is to just be a complete basketball player. Somebody who can kind of do it all: Pass, defend, shoot, score,” he says.
That’s what everyone wants to be in the NBA, including Philon, who doesn’t have the same build as Burries. He’s an inch shorter, has the same 6-foot-6 wingspan but weighed in at 176 pounds. Skinny guards always are a cause for concern defensively.
Philon, however, says he plays bigger than what he weighed in at, and he’s already putting weight back on. He played at 185 pounds last season at Alabama and is hovering around 180 to 183 pounds right now. Plus, Philon won’t be asked to carry such a heavy offensive load to start his pro career, allowing him to have more energy on defense.
“My ability to play on and off the ball is really special,” Philon said. “And then to still be able to do it on the other side of the ball is really important.”
His freshman year at Alabama showed promise. His sophomore year was special.
Philon last season ranked third in the SEC in points per game (22.0) and fourth in assists per game (5.0). He did so while also shooting 39.9 percent from 3-point range on 6.2 attempts per game.
Another difference between him and Burries is that Philon lives under the rim. Rising for dunks isn’t part of his game. Getting into the paint and making the defense make a decision is. That’s a skill he wanted to show off in front of the Warriors, too.
“Just my ability to get in the paint and create for others,” Philon said when asked what his goal for the day was.
It also doesn’t hurt that Philon’s “idol” growing up was Steph Curry. Even as he grew up in Mobile, Ala., Philon had three Curry jerseys as a kid: Blue, white and gold.
Burries is the least likely of the bunch to be available with the No. 11 pick. There’s a good chance Philon still is on the board. Stirtz definitely will be.
The Iowa point guard is more of a trade-down option for the Warriors, or someone they could trade back into the first round for. Burries will be 21 before his first NBA game. Philon turns 21 in late November. Stirtz, a senior, will be 23 prior to his first pro game.
After two great seasons in Division II, Stirtz transferred to Drake and was named the Missouri Valley Conference Player of the Year as a junior; he then leveled up again as a senior to Iowa, where he was named Second Team All-Big Ten. He has similar size to Philon and is a little sturdier.
Is he a top athlete? No. Stirtz is a highly skilled player who could surprise some with where he lands. He knows how to operate an offense and shot 37.2 percent from three in his two years of D-I ball. Stirtz swiped 123 steals between his days at Drake and Iowa, and he is extremely smart with the ball, tallying 363 assists to just 138 turnovers in that span.
Getting Curry and the rest of the roster help with more ball-handlers and playmakers is a Warriors priority, whether that’s through the draft, trades or free agency.
Politicians always speak at team victory rallies after the city wins a championship, but often in broad tones. They only talk about the star players, give kudos to the owner, and generally don’t show a lot of understanding when it comes to the team itself, the history, or the significance of the moment.
New York City mayor Zohan Mamdani flipped the script on Thursday when he stepped to the mic at the Knicks victory rally and delivered one of the most incredible, insightful, and inspiring speeches that a public official has delivered about a team. You don’t need to agree with his politics, or even like him as a person to appreciate that this is a guy who really knows the team he’s talking about.
The first part of the speech was focused on the city. How the pain, and anticipation became part of the fabric of the city. Mamdani highlighted the fans watching games on the street through the windows of electronic shops, at the bar, alone in their apartments, or shoulder-to-shoulder at the bar. It’s here he shouted out not just Knicks legends, but iconic moments and superfans. It was a heck of a way to kick things off.
As amazing as this way was, the second was almost better. Showing an unreal understanding of team building, Mamdani gave shout-outs to a lot of the players who are no longer with the team, but who helped build the culture of the 2025-26 Knicks to become champions — and even gave credit to Tom Thibodeau for his guidance before turning the team over.
This will truly rank among the great sports speeches of all time. Not just by a politician at a victory rally, but ever. It was pretty much perfect.
