The New York Knicks delivered the greatest comeback in NBA Finals history, and U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) star Tyler Adams’ exuberant celebration with his teammates quickly became a viral sensation. The video, which captured their reaction, has already garnered more than 5.2 million views on X. Adams later revealed that he found motivation in the Knicks’ relentless spirit during their fightback against the San Antonio Spurs.

Knicks nearing championship glory

The Knicks overturned a massive 29-point deficit to shock the Spurs and claim a vital Game 3 victory. Adams, a devoted Knicks supporter, was among countless fans left stunned when OG Anunoby’s decisive tip-in secured the lead. U.S. Soccer shared a video showing Adams and his teammates celebrating the electrifying moment in disbelief.

Now, the New York Knicks stand just one victory away from ending their 50-year wait for an NBA championship — a moment that would mark a historic triumph for both the franchise and the city. Although Adams, 27, hasn’t witnessed every chapter of that long journey, he has experienced numerous emotional highs and lows as a lifelong fan.

“Obviously, being a kid from New York, growing up a Knicks fan with my family, yeah, it’s special right now,” Adams said while reflecting on the dramatic win. “Hopefully, they can do something special.”

On his viral celebration

Adams admitted that he completely lost himself in the excitement of the moment.

“Anything could have happened in that. I blacked out within it all. I’m happy we’re here today as we make it to another training,” he said, laughing about the intensity of the celebration.

Drawing inspiration from the Knicks and locker room banter

As the Knicks edge closer to a long-awaited championship, Adams was asked if their remarkable run has served as motivation for him and his USMNT teammates.

“It’s pretty captivating,” Adams explained. “I think them kind of being the underdog coming out of the East and doing something special as they’re doing right now, I take inspiration too, but I’m a New York Knicks fan.”

However, not everyone in the USMNT dressing room shared Adams’ enthusiasm. He mentioned that a few of his teammates were vocal Knicks critics.

“Brenden. He’s a Sixers fan. He can’t say anything,” Adams joked. “Haji Wright is a big hater right now, but I love all that energy. It’s good. It was quite a scene.”

Looking ahead

The USMNT will soon turn their attention to the World Cup, as they prepare to kick off their campaign on Friday with a home fixture against Paraguay in Los Angeles.

Reporting by Ryan Tolmich from Irvine, California.