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Knicks & Nets: New York's Longest-Standing Team

Oct 23, 2025 by Faj Lennon 48 views

Knicks & Nets: New York's Longest-Standing TeamAlright, guys, let's settle a debate that’s probably popped up in countless New York City diners, sports bars, and family gatherings: *who has really been in New York longer – the Knicks or the Nets?* This isn't just about basketball; it's about bragging rights, historical roots, and what it truly means to represent the Empire State. For decades, the New York Knicks have been synonymous with NYC basketball, playing in the iconic Madison Square Garden, right in the heart of Manhattan. They're woven into the very fabric of the city, a foundational pillar of its sporting identity. But then, the Brooklyn Nets, after a long and winding journey, finally made their home in the bustling borough of Brooklyn, establishing a fierce cross-borough rivalry that's injected new energy into the NBA landscape. It’s a classic tale of the established titan against the ambitious challenger, and their respective histories in *New York* are key to understanding this dynamic.When we talk about _New York basketball_ and its longevity, we're really diving into the very soul of sports history here. The sheer mention of the *New York Knicks* immediately conjures images of legendary players, dramatic games, and the roar of a devoted fan base. They’ve been an integral part of the city’s narrative for so long that it’s almost impossible to imagine New York without them. Their story is deeply intertwined with the development of the NBA itself, standing as one of its original franchises. On the other hand, the *Brooklyn Nets*, while a relatively new fixture in the urban jungle of NYC, actually boast a rich and complex history that predates their current location. Their path to becoming the “Brooklyn” Nets involved multiple moves, name changes, and league affiliations, making their claim to a “New York” identity a fascinating subject of discussion. This isn't just a simple yes or no question; it's a deep dive into franchise origins, geographical shifts, and the evolving landscape of professional basketball. So, buckle up, because we're about to explore the rich tapestries of both these iconic teams, unraveling their timelines, and definitively answering who holds the title of _New York's longest-standing basketball team_. We'll look at their foundational years, their moves, and what “being in New York” truly means for a professional sports franchise. Understanding these trajectories is *crucial* to appreciating the depth of their rivalry and the passion of their respective fan bases, who sometimes argue this very point with all the ferocity of a playoff game. This historical context provides valuable insight into why both teams mean so much to their supporters and to the city itself. So, let’s get into the nitty-gritty, shall we?## The New York Knicks: A Legacy Forged in the Big AppleAlright, let's kick things off with the **New York Knicks**, shall we? These guys are *absolute OGs* in the NBA world, and their story starts right here in New York City, folks. When we talk about the *Knicks' tenure in New York*, we're literally talking about the birth of a basketball empire. The franchise was established back in **1946**, making them one of the original teams of the Basketball Association of America (BAA), which soon merged with the National Basketball League (NBL) to form what we now know and love as the National Basketball Association (NBA) in 1949. Think about that for a second: they've been around since the very beginning of the league, and they've always called New York City home. From day one, the team, officially named the New York Knickerbockers (though everyone just calls them the Knicks), planted their roots firmly in Manhattan.Their inaugural season saw them playing at the venerable Madison Square Garden, a venue that has since become synonymous with **New York Knicks basketball**. This wasn't some temporary stop; this was their *intended and permanent home* from the get-go. Over the decades, the Garden has hosted countless legendary moments, from championship triumphs in the 70s to epic playoff battles and the electrifying atmosphere that only a New York crowd can generate. The Knicks' history is a rich tapestry woven with iconic players like Willis Reed, Walt “Clyde” Frazier, Patrick Ewing, and countless others who donned the blue and orange and fought for the city. Their continuous presence in *New York City* is a point of immense pride for their fans. They haven't moved, they haven't changed their name, and they haven't had any identity crises about where they belong. They are, quite simply, *New York's team*, through and through.This unwavering consistency in location and identity is a **key differentiator** when comparing them to other teams, especially the Nets. While other franchises have relocated multiple times or started in different cities, the Knicks have remained a steadfast fixture in the NYC sporting landscape. This long-standing tenure means generations of fans have grown up with the Knicks as their team, creating a deep, almost familial bond. Imagine your grandparents, parents, and you all cheering for the same team, in the same city, year after year. That's the *Knicks' legacy*. This deep-rooted connection to the city gives them an undeniable advantage in the “longest-standing” debate. They didn't just move here; they were *born here*. Their entire organizational history, every single game, every single practice, every single player contract, has been tied to New York City. This isn't just about a physical building; it's about a cultural presence, an ingrained part of the city's pulse. The phrase “New York Knicks” isn't just a team name; it's a historical statement, a declaration of uninterrupted commitment to the Big Apple. So, when anyone asks about who's been around longer, the *New York Knicks* stand tall as the undisputed original inhabitants of the NYC basketball scene, with a rich, unbroken lineage directly connected to this incredible metropolis. Their presence isn't just about a team playing games; it's about a sustained cultural institution that has deeply influenced the identity of sports in New York.## The Brooklyn Nets: A Journey to the Empire StateNow, let's pivot to the **Brooklyn Nets**, a team with a fascinating, albeit circuitous, path to becoming a New York City darling. Unlike the Knicks, whose history is firmly rooted in Manhattan from day one, the *Nets' journey to New York* is a tale of migrations and transformations. Their story actually begins in 1967, not in New York, but in Teaneck, New Jersey, where they were established as the *New Jersey Americans* in the American Basketball Association (ABA). So, right off the bat, we're seeing a fundamental difference in origin. They weren't born in the Big Apple, guys; they had to earn their way here!After just one season in Teaneck, the team moved across the river to Long Island, New York, in 1968, and *that's* when they became the **New York Nets**. So, yes, they did have a “New York” designation, but it was *Long Island*, not the boroughs of NYC proper, and they were still in the ABA, a rival league to the NBA at the time. During their time on Long Island, playing at the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, they enjoyed some of their most successful years, winning two ABA championships in 1974 and 1976, largely thanks to the legendary Dr. J, Julius Erving. This period marked their first significant footprint in the broader New York metropolitan area. However, when the ABA merged with the NBA in 1976, the Nets, along with three other ABA teams, joined the established league. Due to financial considerations and territorial rights disputes with the Knicks, the Nets were forced to pay a hefty fee to the Knicks for infringing on their established *New York market*. This financial strain, among other factors, led them to move back to New Jersey.In 1977, they officially became the **New Jersey Nets**, setting up shop first in Piscataway and then eventually settling in East Rutherford and later Newark. For the next 35 years, from 1977 to 2012, they were the *New Jersey Nets*, building a fan base and history in the Garden State. While they were physically close to New York City, they weren't *in* New York City. They had memorable runs, including back-to-back NBA Finals appearances in the early 2000s with Jason Kidd at the helm, proving they were a formidable force. However, the dream of returning to New York City, to truly tap into the massive market and establish a stronger identity, never faded.It wasn't until **2012** that the *Nets officially made their triumphant return to New York*, this time planting their flag firmly in Brooklyn. They built the state-of-the-art Barclays Center and rebranded as the **Brooklyn Nets**, a major move that fundamentally shifted their identity and market presence. This move created the direct cross-borough rivalry with the Knicks that we know today, injecting fresh excitement into the NBA. So, while the “Nets” name has been associated with “New York” previously (on Long Island), their *current, permanent, and most impactful presence within New York City proper* only began in 2012. This long and winding road, from New Jersey, to Long Island, back to New Jersey, and *finally* to Brooklyn, highlights a vastly different timeline compared to the Knicks' continuous residency. This section, emphasizing the multiple moves and the late arrival to NYC proper, clearly explains why their “New York” tenure is more recent and less continuous than the Knicks. This historical context is vital for understanding the distinction between the two teams' claims to being “New York's team.”## A Tale of Two Cities (and Franchises)Let's cut right to the chase, guys, and directly address the core question: **who has been in New York longer – the Knicks or the Nets?** Based on the historical timelines we've just laid out, the answer is pretty clear and unambiguous: the _New York Knicks_ have had a significantly longer and *uninterrupted* tenure in New York City compared to the Brooklyn Nets. This isn't just about physical location; it's about the very essence of a franchise's identity and its continuous presence within a specific geographical and cultural landscape.The **New York Knicks**, as we discussed, were founded in 1946 and have played every single one of their seasons in Madison Square Garden, right in the heart of Manhattan. That's a staggering stretch of over **78 consecutive years** of being firmly planted in New York City. Their identity has always been tied to this city, making them one of the most stable and long-standing franchises in professional sports, not just in basketball. They are, in every sense of the word, a *native New York team*.Now, let's look at the **Brooklyn Nets' timeline**. Their origins are actually in New Jersey in 1967. They did spend a period on Long Island, from 1968 to 1977, as the “New York Nets,” but even that was in a different league (ABA for most of it) and geographically distinct from New York City's boroughs. After that stint, they moved back to New Jersey, remaining the “New Jersey Nets” for a substantial 35 years, from 1977 to 2012. It wasn't until **2012** that the team *officially returned to New York City proper*, establishing themselves in Brooklyn as the Brooklyn Nets.So, when we compare the continuous, unbroken presence of the **New York Knicks** since 1946 to the *Brooklyn Nets'* presence in New York City proper, which only began in 2012, the difference is night and day. Even if we generously count the Long Island years (1968-1977) as “New York,” the *Nets' total time in some form of “New York”* would be about 9 years (Long Island) plus 12 years (Brooklyn, as of 2024) = 21 years. This pales in comparison to the Knicks' 78+ years. But the key distinction is *continuous presence in New York City*. The Knicks have it; the Nets, with their numerous moves and periods outside the city, do not.This difference in longevity and continuity isn't just a trivial factoid, folks. It profoundly impacts the perception of each team. The Knicks carry the weight of nearly eight decades of history *within* the city, making them an inherited institution for many New Yorkers. The Nets, on the other hand, are still building their legacy in Brooklyn, striving to establish that same deep-seated connection. While they have passionately embraced Brooklyn and are certainly a formidable *New York City team now*, their historical roots in the immediate metropolitan area are much shorter and fragmented. This comparison reveals that while both teams represent New York today, only one has truly called it home without interruption for the vast majority of professional basketball's existence.## The Enduring Rivalry and What It Means for FansBeyond the historical timeline, the question of who's been in New York longer really fuels the **enduring rivalry between the Knicks and the Nets**. For fans, this isn't just about a factual timeline; it's about *identity, pride, and bragging rights*. When the Nets moved to Brooklyn in 2012, it wasn't just another team relocating; it was the creation of a genuine cross-borough rivalry, an “Empire State of Mind” clash that immediately captivated the local basketball scene. Suddenly, New York City had two NBA teams competing for fans, media attention, and, most importantly, the title of *New York's favorite team*. This rivalry instantly became a hotly debated topic, with the question of historical tenure often thrown into the mix as a psychological weapon.For **Knicks fans**, their team's long, unbroken history in Manhattan is a source of immense pride. They often view themselves as the *original, authentic New York team*, almost like a birthright. This deep-rooted connection means that cheering for the Knicks isn't just about watching a game; it's about participating in a multi-generational tradition. They’ve seen their team through thick and thin, through glorious championship runs and frustrating rebuilding phases, all while remaining steadfastly in the same city, at the same iconic arena. The idea that another team could challenge their claim to New York without the same historical depth often feels like an affront, something they'll vehemently argue against. The longevity of the *New York Knicks* is a foundational aspect of their fan identity, making every “Battle of the Boroughs” game even more charged. They see their team as integral to the city's sports heritage, a consistent presence in a constantly changing metropolis. This unwavering loyalty, passed down through families, creates a profound sense of ownership over the “New York” basketball narrative.On the flip side, **Nets fans**, particularly those who adopted the team upon its arrival in Brooklyn, often highlight the fresh energy and modern identity the team brings. While acknowledging their team's more circuitous route, they passionately embrace the *Brooklyn Nets* as a true embodiment of the borough's vibrant, resilient spirit. For them, it’s less about who was here first and more about who is *here now*, and who represents the future. They are building a new legacy, forging their own traditions, and creating an exciting alternative for New Yorkers. The rivalry, for them, is about proving that even without the same decades of continuous NYC history, they are every bit as legitimate and competitive a *New York team*. They’ve built a strong identity in Brooklyn, captivating a new generation of fans and establishing a distinct culture. The fact that the Nets' story involves overcoming multiple moves and finally settling in Brooklyn only adds to their narrative of perseverance and establishing a new identity against the established order.Ultimately, this **Knicks vs. Nets rivalry**, fueled by historical context and geographical proximity, has been a massive win for NBA fans in New York. It brings a new level of intensity to regular-season games and provides endless fodder for debate. The question of *New York longevity* is an integral part of this dynamic, with both fan bases using their team's history (or lack thereof, in the case of long-term NYC residence for the Nets) to underscore their points. It reminds us that sports are about more than just wins and losses; they're about narrative, identity, and the deep, often emotional, connections fans have with their teams and the cities they represent. The historical facts certainly lean towards the Knicks as the longest-standing team *in New York City*, but the passion of both fan bases ensures that the debate, and the rivalry, will continue to thrive.## Conclusion: The Undisputed Reign of the KnicksSo, after diving deep into the rich histories of both the **New York Knicks** and the **Brooklyn Nets**, the answer to our initial question — _have the Knicks been in New York longer than the Nets?_ — is an emphatic and undisputed **YES**. Without a shadow of a doubt, the *New York Knicks* hold the title of New York City's longest-standing professional basketball team, with a continuous, unbroken presence in Manhattan since their inception in 1946. They are truly an original cornerstone of the NBA and a foundational pillar of the Big Apple's sports identity.Let's recap the critical points, just so we're all on the same page, guys. The **New York Knicks** were born and raised right here in New York City. From their very first game in 1946, they've played at Madison Square Garden, making them an unwavering fixture in the city's landscape for over **78 consecutive years**. Their blue and orange colors, their legendary players, and their passionate fan base are all inextricably linked to the fabric of New York. This isn't just about a team; it's about a multi-generational legacy, a continuous story told in the heart of one of the world's greatest cities.On the other hand, the **Brooklyn Nets**, while now a vibrant and integral part of the New York City sports scene, have a more complex and migratory history. They originated in New Jersey in 1967, spent some time as the “New York Nets” on Long Island (outside the city's boroughs) from 1968 to 1977, and then returned to New Jersey for a significant 35-year stint. It wasn't until **2012** that they truly, definitively, and permanently made their home within New York City proper, establishing themselves as the *Brooklyn Nets*. This means their direct and continuous tenure *within the five boroughs* of New York City is relatively recent, currently just over a decade.While both teams proudly represent New York today, and the *Brooklyn Nets* have absolutely established a strong identity and a dedicated following in Brooklyn, the historical facts clearly show that the **Knicks** possess a vastly superior claim to longevity *in New York City*. This doesn't diminish the Nets' impact or the excitement they bring to the NBA, but it does clarify the historical record. The “Battle of the Boroughs” is a thrilling rivalry, bringing unparalleled energy to the league, and both teams contribute immensely to the vibrant sports culture of New York. However, when it comes down to the raw facts of continuous tenure, the *New York Knicks* stand alone as the elder statesman, the true original, having been a constant presence in the Big Apple since the dawn of professional basketball. So, the next time this debate pops up, you'll have all the facts to confidently declare that the Knicks have indeed been in New York significantly longer than the Nets. They are, and have been, *New York's longest-standing professional basketball team*.

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