Latkes for sale, meatballs instead of sausage - these were just some of the differences on Sunday evening December 4, when Madison Square Garden became the scene of Jewish pride. A portion of Maccabeats beautifully sang the national anthem, Star-Spangled Banner, in a marvelous fashion making Jewish Heritage Night a great success. The hometown Knicks defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers 92 to 81.
During halftime, a sports league from the Five Towns, JSL, which attended as Knicks’ guests, played a game against the Junior Knicks. The group, which hosts basketball, soccer, and hockey leagues for boys K-8, also received courtside passes for the Knicks’ pregame shootaround. Amar’e Stoudemire, Yahoshafat ben Avraham, a recognized former Knicks all-star, sat courtside and was given an honor at the game. Others in attendance included Francisco Lindor, Michael J. Fox, and Jon Stewart.
Appreciation is extended to the UJA and JCRC-NY for making the event possible. Free Knicks-branded yarmulkes were made available to ticket package purchasers, and Mikes Hot Honey Stand presented potato latkes on their menu.
Also on December 4, the Detroit Pistons hosted their Jewish Heritage Night. Present was Ryan Turell, formerly of the YU Maccabees and now hoping to play for the Pistons. On December 7, the New York Islanders hosted their Jewish Heritage Night.
By Shabsie Saphirstein