Josh Hart literally put the Larry O’Brien Trophy on his head for the Knicks’ championship ring ceremony on October 20, 2026. The New York Knicks star, 31, showed up at Madison Square Garden with an intricately braided hairstyle depicting the NBA title, kicking off the season opener against the Philadelphia 76ers in unforgettable style. This was more than just a fresh cut, it was a declaration.
The Trophy on His Head: A True New York Tribute
Hart’s trophy-inspired braids were the talk of the arena, and for good reason. His go-to stylist, Sandra Finn, known as @sandrasbraids on social media, created the masterpiece. Finn shared detailed shots of her work, racking up thousands of likes and comments praising the artistry. It’s a next-level move, especially considering Hart’s history of rocking looks with serious New York significance. He’s previously sported the classic “NY” logo, the “I heart NY” design with the heart symbol braided right at his crown, and even the iconic interlocking “NY” Yankees symbol. Talk about representing the city!
Hart previously said in an NBA promotional video that these custom looks are his way “to show love to a city that’s really embraced me and, you know, accepted me.” It’s clear that his personal brand is all about that connection to the Big Apple. Finn herself told The New York Times during the finals that working with athletes like Hart is “unique because their hairstyle is a part of their personal brand. Fans recognize the design and the styles and it’s seen by millions on television and social media. There’s a lot of pressure to execute the design perfectly.” She added that it’s “rewarding because it allows me to showcase braiding like art on a larger stage.”
Championship Bling and Opening Night Blues
This wasn’t some quiet opening night. No way. Madison Square Garden was absolutely electric as the Knicks celebrated their first NBA title in 53 years with a massive ring and banner-raising ceremony. Hart was a huge part of the squad that secured that championship title back in June, and he definitely brought that winning energy to opening night, even if it was on his head.
Finals MVP Jalen Brunson wasn’t about to be outdone, either. He sported an all-gold player-exclusive version of the Nike Kobe 6 Protro, shimmering with high gloss on the snake scale pattern, with the Swoosh and heel stabilizer dazzling. Even the tongue and midsole glittered like the team’s championship rings and trophy. Jordyn Woods also rocked an all-gold look for the celebration. The entire place was dripping in gold! The night, however, had a bit of a sour note on the court. Despite all the championship glitter, the Knicks ended up dropping their season opener to the Sixers, 106-100.
What a wild start to the season for the champs. You know the Knicks have to be fired up to defend that title, but losing the opener after such a huge ceremony? That’s gotta sting a little. Time to shake it off and show the league why they’re the reigning champs. The season is a marathon, and this was only game one.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
Leave a Reply