New York Knicks ticker-tape parade and celebration: Live updates
Last updated: Thursday, June 18, 2026 9:06PM GMT
NEW YORK (WABC) -- It's estimated that over two million people celebrated the Knicks on Thursday as the Parade of Champions honored the team's first NBA championship since 1973.
Following the parade, Mayor Zohran Mamdani hosted a championship celebration and Key to the City ceremony on City Hall Plaza.
After the ceremony, Alicia Keys sang her iconic hit "Empire State of Mind."
The ticker-tape parade was a first for the Knicks, who did not celebrate with the famed tradition during their last wins in 1970 or 1973.
The celebration comes after an awe-inspiring playoff run which saw the Knicks secure the team's first NBA title in more than 50 years with a 4-1 series win over the San Antonio Spurs.
Actor Matthew Modine shares his love of the NY Knicks at parade
Actor Matthew Modine attended the New York Knicks Parade of Champions on Thursday to share his love of the team with fans.
He has been a fan for several decades and is delighted to be a part of this special celebration.
You may remember Modine from "The Dark Knight Rises" or as "Papa" in "Stranger Things" as just two of his many roles.
Actor Matthew Modine spoke to Nina Pineda about the Knicks big NBA Finals win at the Parade of Champions.
Jun 18, 2026, 3:47 PM GMT
Jalen Brunson carries the trophy for fans
Jalen Brunson carries the trophy for fans during the ticker-tape parade on Broadway, in New York's "Canyon of Heroes," Thursday, June 18, 2026.
Jun 18, 2026, 3:43 PM GMT
PHOTOS: Incredible images of fans celebrating the Knicks along the Canyon of Heroes
Crowds fill the sidewalks waiting for the start of the NBA Champion New York Knicks ticker-tape parade on Broadway, in New York's "Canyon of Heroes," Thursday, June 18, 2026.
Crowds fill the sidewalks during the NBA Champion New York Knicks ticker-tape parade on Broadway, in New York's "Canyon of Heroes," Thursday, June 18, 2026.
Fans watch from adjacent buildings during the New York Knicks' NBA championship parade Thursday, June 18, 2026, in New York
Jun 18, 2026, 3:32 PM GMT
Gov. Hochul and Mayor Mamdani wave to crowds along the Canyon of Heroes
New York's governor and the city's mayor were on a float with Karl-Anthony Towns and OG Anunoby, waving to crowds along the jam-packed Canyon of Heroes.
Gov. Hochul and Mayor Mamdani waved to crowds along the Canyon of Heroes during Thursday's parade.
