Knicks' nickname and mascot history explored amid NBA Finals return
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 5, 2026, 7:40 PM
Last updated Jun 5, 2026
The New York Knicks returned to the NBA Finals on June 5, 2026, marking their first appearance in 27 years. The nickname "Knickerbocker" has historical roots linked to the 17th-century Dutch settlers of New York and the traditional pants rolled up below the knee. The name was adopted for a baseball team in 1845 and later for the basketball franchise in 1946. Although the team is commonly known as the "Knicks," they have never had an official mascot, though a historical representation existed from 1946 to 1964.
- •Knicks return to NBA Finals for the first time since 1999.
- •Nickname 'Knickerbocker' reflects Dutch heritage in New York.
- •The term was first used in sports by a baseball team in 1845.
- •Knicks considered multiple names before settling on 'Knickerbockers'.
- •The franchise has never had an official mascot.
- 7:40 PMYahoo Sports — What is a Knickerbocker? Explaining the meaning of New York Knicks' nickname and mascot
"The Knicks have one of the most interesting nicknames in sports, and its meaning has been contemplated.
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