Spike Lee admits he would’ve had to move from New York if it wasn’t for John Starks: “Every time I see him, I give him a hug”

Key Takeaways:

• Spike Lee once considered moving away from New York.
• John Starks intervened, protecting Lee from angry Knicks fans.
• Key NBA figures mentioned include Reggie Miller and the Indiana Pacers.
• The Knicks remain central to Spike Lee’s devotion to basketball.
• Spike Lee continues to express thanks to Starks for his support.

The Crucial Role of John Starks

Spike Lee, best known for his award-winning films and ever-present courtside energy at Madison Square Garden, recently confessed that he “would’ve had to move from New York if it wasn’t for John Starks.” This startling remark underscores how dire the situation had become with certain Knicks fans upset at Lee’s courtside antics.

The Backdrop of Heated Rivalries

Tensions among New York Knicks faithful spiked during the team’s iconic matchups with rivals like Reggie Miller of the Indiana Pacers. During those charged moments, Lee’s passionate cheering occasionally drew the ire of fellow fans who believed he might be stoking the opposition’s fire.

Spike Lee’s Thankful Heart

For Lee, the fury of the Knicks crowd could have led him to leave New York altogether—until John Starks stepped in. According to Lee, “Every time I see him, I give him a hug.” It’s a testament to how much Starks’s support meant in keeping him grounded in the city he adores.

Why It Matters

In a town where sports loyalties run deep, the story of John Starks coming to Spike Lee’s rescue highlights the profound bonds formed between fans, players, and iconic supporters. For Lee, Starks did more than just calm a crowd—he reaffirmed the pride of Knicks fandom and helped preserve one of basketball’s most recognizable courtside presences.