It is the “World’s Most Famous Arena,” “The Mecca,” the grandest stage in sports.
Madison Square Garden produces an atmosphere unlike any other in the NBA. But that magic also results in visitors receiving invitations for career-defining performances.
Two years ago, the Knicks hosted the Hawks in Game 5 of their first-round series, hoping to avoid elimination. Initially, the “De-Fense!” chants were thunderous. Eventually, the organ sang louder than the voices of 16,512 fans, quieted by Atlanta’s 103-89 win. Clint Capela came to New York, vowing to “send [the Knicks] on vacation.” Young left as the city’s newest villain, bowing to the crowd and waving goodbye at midcourt in the game’s final minute.
“I know there’s a bunch of shows around this city and I know what they do when the show is over,” Young said after putting up 36 points and nine assists.
