In addition to their diligent presence to follow a team, they had to show a “ authentic love “, a ” in-depth knowledge » basketball or even have a “ respected reputation » within the community.
The Hall of Fame based itself on these criteria to announce the addition of four new “superfans” to its dedicated gallery. Director Spike Lee, actors Jack Nicholson and Billy Crystal, as well as real estate developer Alan Horwitz are the winners of this 2024 vintage.
This group will be honored during a ceremony on October 13, a few hours before the Hall of Fame welcomes its new class of former players and coaches (Vince Carter, Chauncey Billups, Michael Cooper, Jerry West, etc.).
Subscribers for ten years
« These figures have not only been passionate fans, but have also contributed significantly to the rich culture of basketball. Their unwavering dedication to the game and ability to touch fans makes them truly deserving of this recognition », Explains John L. Doleva, the head of the institution.
Spike Lee has been a year-round subscriber with the Knicks since 1985, the year the New Yorkers got their hands on Patrick Ewing in the Draft. The multiple Oscar winner has some iconic moments behind him, the most famous of which was with Reggie Miller in 1994.
« I never imagined that fans could be celebrated there », wonders the director of He Got Game about this spotlight: “ I sincerely thank the Hall of Fame for this totally unexpected blessing for my love of basketball and my crazy love for the NEW YORK KNICKERBOCKERS! »
The passion of Jack Nicholson, a prominent Lakers fan, goes even further back since his subscription dates back to the 1970s, even before the “Showtime” era. The three-time Oscar winner likes to sit near the opposing team’s bench with his sunglasses on, and he’s known for adjusting his filming schedule so he can attend as many Lakers games as possible.
The Sixers’ 6th man
In the Clippers clan, we find Billy Crystal. “ I guess this means I won’t be admitted as a player “, laughs the star of “When Harry Met Sally”. He was passionate about the local team even before his arrival in Los Angeles, when the franchise played in San Diego in the late 1970s.
Finally, Alan Horwitz has held a year-round subscription with the Sixers for more than 60 years, enough to earn him the unofficial title of 6th man of the franchise. “ I love the Sixers! It is an honor and privilege to be included in the “Superfan Hall of Fame” gallery with other passionate fans. My mother would never believe it if she were still alive today », he enthuses.
The four men will join this gallery, created in 2018 and located on the second floor of the Hall of Fame, which already includes Jim Goldstein – the gallery is named after him – Penny Marshall and Nav Bhatia, the famous “superfan” of the Raptors.
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