By Fatma Younis
New York Knicks players Tyler Kolek and Miles McBride labeled Taylor Swift a “performative” fan during a Thursday NBA 2K TikTok livestream, prompting the team to issue a statement defending the singer’s long-standing support for the franchise.
Players question Swift’s fandom
When asked to name the “fakest celeb fan” they had seen courtside, Kolek suggested Swift, saying he had not seen her at other games. McBride agreed, acknowledging the answer would upset Swift’s fan base. Kolek later attempted to soften the remark, citing Swift’s busy schedule, but maintained her fandom appeared “a little performative.”
Knicks defend Swift
The Knicks responded Friday with a statement emphasizing Swift’s history with the team. “Taylor Swift has been a Knicks fan for many years, has a long history with Madison Square Garden, and we are incredibly appreciative of her support of the organization,” a spokesperson said.
Swift’s Knicks history
Swift attended Game 4 of the 2026 NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden alongside Alana Haim, Este Haim and Mariska Hargitay, wearing Knicks-themed shirts as New York overcame a 29-point deficit to beat San Antonio. The Knicks clinched the championship three days later, their first since 1973. Swift also visited a Knicks practice in 2014 and participated in a memorable dunk with then-player Amar’e Stoudemire.
