In a recent episode of PEOPLE’s “WAG World,” Ana Zortea, the girlfriend of New York Knicks player Miles “Deuce” McBride, shared insights into the close-knit community formed among the wives and girlfriends of Knicks players. The episode aired shortly after the Knicks celebrated their first NBA Championship in 53 years, marking a historic achievement for the team.
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Zortea, who is not only a social media influencer with over a million followers but also a former Brazilian national team swimmer, explained how the group’s dynamic had strengthened over the course of the intense NBA season. “We’ve shared so many months and so many games together, and that draws us all closer,” she expressed to host Skyler Caruso.
The special group chat, which Zortea referred to as “Knicks WAGs,” became a crucial support system during the highs and lows of the season. The group was particularly active during the playoffs, where emotional support and shared anxieties were commonplace. Zortea noted that, during games, discussions often revolved around contentious referee decisions. “Oh my gosh, we just be stressed. Sometimes we’ll be like, ‘These refs!’” she revealed with a laugh, highlighting the shared experience of navigating game tensions alongside the players.
Despite the stress, Zortea indicated that camaraderie among the women was a focal point of the chat, particularly as they celebrated the team’s successful season. “We celebrate together, and we’re all trying to figure out what we’re going to wear to the parade,” she said, referring to the Knicks’ ticker-tape parade held in New York City to commemorate their Championship win.
Fashion has played a notable role in the lives of the Knicks WAGs, although Zortea admitted that it isn’t often the main topic of conversation in their group. “While our outfits do get attention, we like to keep our game-day looks a surprise for one another,” she explained. Many of their signature blue-and-orange ensembles are unveiled at the games, adding an element of excitement to the event.
The emotional backdrop of Zortea’s relationship with McBride was evident during the episode as she recounted the moment the Knicks won the championship. On June 13, the Knicks clinched the title by overcoming the San Antonio Spurs in Game 5, walking away with the Larry O’Brien Trophy. Zortea described the atmosphere of the celebration, revealing that they did not return to their hotel until the early hours of the following morning.
Reflecting on the pivotal moment when the final buzzer sounded with a score of 94-90, Zortea conveyed her intense feelings as she rushed to the court to embrace her boyfriend. “When I finally saw him, it was insane. I wish I had someone filming the entire moment,” she stated, describing McBride as being in disbelief. “He was just out of it. He was like, ‘We really did,’” she recounted, highlighting the raw emotion of the scene.
The couple’s reunion was a poignant one, with emotions running high as McBride and his father shared a heartfelt moment filled with tears and celebration. Zortea captured the joy of the occasion, recalling how McBride seemed almost dazed, repeatedly absorbing the reality of their achievement. “It was a beautiful moment, and I think he’s still feeling like that,” she noted, emphasising the magnitude of the victory.
As Zortea and McBride continue to revel in the joy of their success, it is clear that the support of the Knicks’ community has played a significant role in their journey this season. The bonds formed among the players’ partners are a testament to the shared challenges and triumphs they have experienced, culminating in an exhilarating chapter in both their lives and that of the New York Knicks. This historic win not only signifies a milestone for the franchise but also strengthens the connections among its supporters, both on and off the court.