MTA to keep Knicks-themed subway entrance for 2026-27 NBA season
The New York Knicks have been making waves both on and off the basketball court, with the recent announcement that the iconic blue and orange 34th Street subway entrance will remain in its Knicks-themed glory through the end of the 2026-2027 NBA season. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul made the decision to extend the celebration in honor of the Knicks’ historic Finals win, marking their first appearance in the finals since 1999.
The Madison Square Garden station was originally repainted in the Knicks’ signature blue and orange colors on June 1st, drawing fans from all over to capture the perfect photo op. Many fans expressed their desire for the station’s transformation to be permanent, and Hochul took note of their feedback. She announced that the station will retain its Knicks theme as the team looks to defend their title in the upcoming season.
The announcement was made in the presence of acclaimed director and die-hard Knicks fan, Spike Lee, who joined Hochul in celebrating the decision. Both Hochul and Lee were dressed in Knicks gear, embracing the orange and blue spirit that has swept through the city. Hochul emphasized the importance of preserving the iconic subway entrance as a symbol of New York’s love for both the Knicks and the city itself.
MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber echoed Hochul’s sentiments, stating that the themed entrance will help maintain the “mojo” that propelled the Knicks to victory. In addition to the station’s transformation, the MTA will also be running a specially designated “K train” for the Knicks’ upcoming ticker-tape parade. The “K train” will operate from 168th Street to the World Trade Center, providing convenient transportation for fans attending the parade.
The parade is set to be a monumental event, with festivities kicking off in downtown Manhattan at 10 a.m. and access points opening several hours earlier. The procession will make its way down the famous Canyon of Heroes, with projections estimating it to be the city’s largest parade ever. The celebration of the Knicks’ success has truly captured the hearts of New Yorkers and basketball fans alike, solidifying the team’s place in the city’s history.
