**Knicks Point Guard Miles McBride Reflects on Championship Win and Team Bonding**
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Miles-McBride-080626-2-2f370b4876e94ac9a92c7227a02d2af9.jpg)
The New York Knicks’ recent triumph in the 2026 NBA Finals has sparked celebrations and camaraderie among the players, particularly for point guard Miles ‘Deuce’ McBride. Speaking exclusively to PEOPLE at the 40/40 Club red carpet during Fanatics Fest, McBride provided insight into how the team has been reacting in the aftermath of their historic victory.
The Knicks’ win over the San Antonio Spurs marked a significant achievement, as it was the franchise’s first NBA Championship in 53 years. This momentous occasion has allowed the players to deepen their bonds, and McBride noted that the team’s group chat has been positively buzzing since they secured the title.
“The group chat’s been going crazy,” McBride shared, emphasising the excitement among the players following their championship win. He described how team members are joyfully celebrating with their families and loved ones, exchanging numerous messages filled with excitement and gratitude.
Curious about the camaraderie expressed in their group chat, PEOPLE inquired about its name. Without missing a beat, McBride proudly revealed, “What do you think? ‘Champs,’ baby! Champs.” This playful moniker reflects the joyous atmosphere surrounding the team and their newfound status as champions.
Even weeks later, McBride admitted that the reality of their victory has yet to fully sink in. “Every time I hear ‘champ,’ it feels right but it’s still such a blessing, such a surprise,” he explained. The experience of lifting the Larry O’Brien Trophy is one he holds dearly, and he expressed his deep gratitude for the achievement.
Reflecting on the path to victory, McBride credited “resiliency” as a key factor that led the Knicks to triumph against the Spurs in Game 5. “That resiliency paid off, I became an impactful player just through work,” he noted, highlighting the importance of perseverance in his journey. He acknowledged that his abilities were not always acknowledged at first, but believed his skills and work ethic would eventually lead to crucial moments.
Prior to his standout performance in the Finals, McBride’s journey with the Knicks took him from driving four hours to G-League games in Bridgeport, Connecticut, to the grand stage of Madison Square Garden. “I stayed patient,” he revealed of his time developing with the Westchester Knicks before making his breakthrough with the main squad.
McBride expressed appreciation for the support he received from the coaching staff and his teammates during his transition. “The organisation, the coaching staff, and my teammates all just believed in me. I kept working,” he said, underscoring the importance of maintaining a strong work ethic and a positive mindset.
The excitement surrounding the Knicks’ championship victory extends beyond the players. McBride’s girlfriend, Ana Zortea, recently spoke with PEOPLE about the dynamic within the group chat for the partners of Knicks players. She provided a glimpse into the supportive community that has developed, further showcasing the team’s close-knit relationships.
As the New York Knicks bask in their hard-earned success, both players and their families appear united in their celebrations. With a combination of undeniable talent, hard work, and supportive relationships, it seems the Knicks are not only champions on the court but have also cultivated an unbreakable bond off it.
Looking ahead, McBride’s experiences—both in the G-League and now as an NBA champion—serve as a testament to the significance of perseverance and teamwork within the sport. With their hard-earned title, the Knicks have reignited the spirit of their fans and showcased the importance of unity on their path to success.