BOSTON — Knick fans who traveled north for last night’s playoff game against the Celtics sported “Boston Strong” gear as heroes who responded to the marathon bombings were honored.
“We’re Knicks fans, but today we’re here to support Boston and everything they’ve been through,” said Jim Zaccaria, 55, of Manhasset, LI.
The raucous TD Garden quieted before the game for a moment of silence to honor the terror victims, including four slain. The Knicks went on to win, 90-76, to a 3-0 lead in the best-of-seven series.
While some Knick fans sported Boston gear to show their respect for the shaken city, the historic rivalry still prevailed.
“We’re going to wear the ‘Boston Strong’ T-shirts for about three minutes, and then we’re going to take them off and root for the Knicks,” said Knick fan Chris Cook, 28.
A ceremony at half court following the first quarter honored Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick, FBI agents, state, Boston and Watertown police, and doctors from local hospitals where the scores of wounded were treated.
“I can’t root for the Celtics, but I will root for the city of Boston,” said Daniel Dardani. “A bombing won’t stop this town.”