Ben Stiller, much like many New Yorkers, had grown indifferent to the constant defeats, chaos, and heartache surrounding the city’s basketball team.
The Knicks had become synonymous with disappointment, prompting fans to lower their expectations as a coping mechanism.
“Throughout my entire life, I’ve carried this notion that, ‘The Knicks won’t pull through, they’ve never really been good, they’ve been a laughingstock for ages,’” Stiller, the acclaimed comedian and director, shared with The Post. “It became almost an accepted reality.”
Stiller’s passion for the Knicks ignited during the 1973-74 season when his father’s friends — Freddie and Stan — offered the young fan their eighth-row seats right behind the Knicks bench. Coincidentally, this season marked the beginning of a 53-year championship dry spell. After relocating back to NYC from LA in 2010, Stiller found his enthusiasm rekindled, witnessing countless games from his courtside vantage point.