The Dominant and Beloved 1990s New York Knicks Teams

The Dominant New York Knicks Teams of the 1990s

In the 1990s, the New York Knicks fielded some of the most physical and defensive-minded teams in the NBA, led by franchise pillars like Patrick Ewing, Charles Oakley, Anthony Mason, John Starks, and others. This era of Knicks basketball is looked back on fondly by fans for the team's aggressive style of play, rivalry with the Chicago Bulls, and perennial Eastern Conference contention.

Patrick Ewing: The Franchise Centerpiece

The unquestioned leader and face of the 90s Knicks was Hall of Fame center Patrick Ewing. As a dominant seven-footer with exceptional skill and athleticism for a big man, Ewing carried the load on both ends of the court. He played with fierce determination and led the Knicks to the playoffs in 13 of his 15 seasons with the franchise.

The Bruising Frontcourt Duo

Flanking Ewing was the tandem of enforcers Oakley and Mason - two fearsome rebounders and defenders who intimidated opponents with their physicality. Oakley in particular embodied the gritty attitude of those Knicks teams with his toughness on the boards and penchant for altercations.

John Starks: The Heart of a Champion

The crown jewel of those teams was shooting guard John Starks, an electric scorer who thrilled fans at Madison Square Garden with his acrobatic drives, tenacious defense, and clutch shooting. His iconic "Dunk On You" posters encapsulate the bravado that Starks played with. Though undersized, he had the heart of a champion.

A Perennial Contender

With this core leading the charge, for much of the 90s the Knicks were one of the powerhouses of the Eastern Conference. From 1989 to 2000 they had a winning percentage of .633, among the best in the league. The Knicks reached the NBA Finals twice (1994 and 1999), pushed the Chicago Bulls dynasty to the limit in multiple playoff series, and showcased their formidable home-court advantage at a rocking MSG.

The Rivalry With Chicago

The battles with Michael Jordan's Chicago Bulls throughout the 90s, including four playoff series, fueled an intense rivalry between the Eastern Conference's preeminent teams. With Jordan serving as an insurmountable foil to New York's title ambitions, the Bruise Brothers-led Knicks gave Chicago all they could handle with their physicality and 4th quarter scoring from Starks.

The Legacy

Though they were ultimately unable to capture that elusive championship, the 90s Knicks teams left behind a legacy as one of the most beloved eras in franchise history. They endeared themselves to New Yorkers with their lunch pail work ethic and relentless passion, embodying the city's competitive spirit.

FAQs

Why are the 90s Knicks teams so popular?

The 90s Knicks teams are extremely popular among fans due to their bruising, physical style of play, underdog mentality, and captivating rivalry with Michael Jordan's Chicago Bulls dynasty. Players like Patrick Ewing, John Starks, and Charles Oakley embodied the gritty attitude associated with New York City.

Did the 90s Knicks teams win a championship?

Unfortunately no. Despite making two NBA Finals appearances (1994 and 1999), the 90s Knicks were unable to win the elusive title, often foiled by Jordan and the Bulls. However, their memorable playoff battles with Chicago and toughness made them hugely popular.

Who were the key players on the 90s Knicks?

The core players were center Patrick Ewing as the franchise cornerstone, Charles Oakley and Anthony Mason as the bruising power forward duo, and shooting guard John Starks as the electrifying, gutsy scorer.

What was the Knicks' best season in the 90s?

The 1993-94 season when they went 57-25 in the regular season for the top seed in the East, before making a Cinderella run to the NBA Finals as huge underdogs against the Houston Rockets. Ewing averaged 26 PPG in those playoffs.