Excitement Surrounding the Knicks’ Return to the NBA Finals
The excitement surrounding the New York Knicks’ return to the NBA Finals, their first since 1999, has swept across the city, captivating both young fans and city officials. Mayor Zohran Mamdani has taken a unique approach to ensure that children can partake in this thrilling moment without the constraints of bedtime.
Symbolic Executive Order
On Monday, he enacted a symbolic executive order entitled ‘Repealing Kids’ Bedtimes for Knicks Finals Run.’ This order is particularly relevant as the Knicks prepare to challenge the San Antonio Spurs for their first championship title since 1973.
During the signing ceremony, attended by enthusiastic young students, many donned Knicks jerseys while vibrant handprints decorated the document’s reverse side. The order emphasizes the significance of New Yorkers of all ages rallying behind their team during this pivotal championship series. Mamdani acknowledged the potential conflict between the NBA Finals schedule—games set to commence at 8:30 p.m. ET—and the bedtime routines of young fans.
“WHEREAS, bedtimes should not impede the ability of New York’s Cutest to cheer for the Knicks and watch every second of this historic Championship series.”
He explained that from today, bedtime regulations are temporarily suspended in New York City so that all kids can stay up late to support the Knicks. Mamdani conveyed through social media,
“As Mayor, you’re forced to make many difficult decisions. This was not one of them. Go Knicks!”
Details of the Executive Order
Section 1 of the executive order succinctly declares, “I hereby direct that bedtimes in the City of New York are repealed during the NBA Finals so that kids of all ages can root for their New York Knicks,” adding a fun twist by incorporating the lyrics of the team’s anthem “Go New York Go New York Go” from 1993.
Mamdani, who is notably vocal about the Knicks’ journey, has previously humorously cited former Hawks player Trae Young for influencing ticket prices during the first round against Atlanta. After the Knicks triumphed over the Cleveland Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference finals, he took to social media to offer a humorous report:
“I’d like to report a sweep.”
He has also experienced the thrill of the Finals firsthand, attending Game 2 in Madison Square Garden.
Looking Ahead
As the Finals kick off on Wednesday in San Antonio, with the initial two games scheduled at 8:30 p.m. ET, children across New York City will likely be cheering on their team late into the night, thanks to their supportive Mayor’s decree.
