BASKETBALL AND JERSEYS

Jerseys and basketballs are an important part of the game and the experience of going to a basketball game. These objects have a deeper meaning to basketball fans like myself. Wearing a jersey is something I am proud of and playing basketball with my family and friends is a time where I feel like I am myself. Watching basketball players play a game on a big court like the Madison Square Garden arena is a breathtaking and special moment. It is amazing to see how a bouncy ball like a basketball has created so many opportunities for people all over the world.

Walking into Madison Square Garden is an overwhelming experience, especially during basketball games. There are security guards at every door, there are crazy fans pushing their way through, there are jerseys and New York Knicks attire adorning almost every attendee's body. 

This is probably my 87th time at the most famous arena- most of the times I am here is to watch basketball; both professional and college and for both games they have two things in common... basketballs and jerseys are everywhere. Oh, I mean everywhere. As I am walking towards the metal security checks, I look around and see the New York Knicks colors, blue and orange all over the place. The jerseys I notice people wearing is famous retired players; for example Ewing and Anthony. The atmosphere is thick, this is normal for me- the overwhelming amount of fans being crushed together in a small space. I can see the attempt of fans trying to form lines but that doesn't work out for them. The desperation in children's eyes to finally get through security and get to their seats does not go unnoticed. Random men looking around like lost puppies trying to find their friends before getting through the metal detectors. Couples holding on to each others hands tightly to avoid separation due to the pushing of fans that occurs. 

Picture taken from store.nba.com which is the official store to buy NBA jerseys 

New Yorkers wear their jerseys with pride- they are representing their state and the team they love by purchasing these jerseys. A jersey can cost up to $110! There are people wearing hats, and shirts, orange and blue face paint. It is all to show their support for the players. 

I admire NBA fans, they are strong and loyal. The Knicks are the last team in the Eastern Conference standings- they basically have been losing almost every game in the season- yet the fans at today's game were loud and proud, the arena is full of fans and even some celebrities showed their love for the game and the team by wearing Knicks jerseys and merchandise. 

Knicks jerseys are more than just an AMAZING fashion statement. They show loyalty, love and especially show pride. People who do not wear jerseys at the games are looked down at, they are the odd ones out and as a fan, they do not look as invested in the game. 

Basketballs are everywhere, obviously. There are basketballs in the gifts store, basketballs on display, signed basketballs by legends, basketballs people bring from home in hopes a player will sign it, and the holy grail of all basketballs, the Madison Square Garden basketball vault. 

The room is bright, basketballs lined up in different carts against the wall of the room. It is truly a magical sight, knowing that my favorite players of the National Basketball Association have once touched these basketballs. I take a look around and absorb my surroundings. It feels like I am the only one there. Basketball is something I am passionate about and getting the opportunity to see what goes on "backstage" is a moment I will never forget.

Once I make my way up the crowded concession stands, I walk up the narrow stairs to my seat and see the large court in front of me. Basketballs are being thrown everywhere, balls are being shot onto one hoop from all different directions and from different angles.