What is a Knickerbocker? Explaining the meaning of New York Knicks' nickname and mascot originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
For the first time in 27 years, the New York Knicks returned to the NBA Finals in 2026. While almost every NBA fan has heard of the team, due to being located in a large market, many question the full name of the team.
As it turns out, the term "knickerbocker" has a background encapsulated in history. The term actually ties all the way back to the 17th century, during the Dutch's inhabitance of New York.
Though the team mainly goes by "the Knicks" nowadays, some fans have wondered about the full team name's meaning.
Here's everything to know about the Knicks' full nickname, and how it came about.
For the first time in 27 years, the New York Knicks returned to the NBA Finals in 2026. While almost every NBA fan has heard of the team, due to being located in a large market, many question the full name of the team.
As it turns out, the term "knickerbocker" has a background encapsulated in history. The term actually ties all the way back to the 17th century, during the Dutch's inhabitance of New York.
Though the team mainly goes by "the Knicks" nowadays, some fans have wondered about the full team name's meaning.
Here's everything to know about the Knicks' full nickname, and how it came about.
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