Shannon Hart, the wife of New York Knicks player Josh Hart, has shared her unique game-day superstition as the team prepares for Game 5 of the 2026 NBA Finals against the San Antonio Spurs on June 13. Speaking exclusively to PEOPLE, Shannon revealed the peculiar ritual she engages in during her husband’s free throw shots, which she firmly believes has contributed to his on-court success.
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In her conversation, Shannon recounted an interesting evolution in her routine. “I used to do these little spirit fingers during his free throws,” she explained. “But when he started missing, I thought, ‘That’s not working.’” This particular superstition dates back to Josh’s college days at Villanova, where the couple first developed their shared love for basketball.
The pivotal moment for Shannon came after witnessing yet another missed free throw. “I decided to look away because I couldn’t bear to watch him miss again,” she said. To her astonishment, as soon as she turned her gaze, Josh started making his shots. Since then, she has made it a point to avert her eyes until the ball has left his hand. “I have to look away. I can only know if he scores by judging the crowd’s reaction,” she added, highlighting the lengths she will go to in support of her husband.
Amidst the pressure of the ongoing championship series, Shannon is also embracing a partnership with Reese’s, leveraging the spotlight to promote the brand’s new cookie mashup with Oreo, complete with the vibrant blue and orange packaging that reflects the Knicks’ team colours. “We’ve been wearing orange and blue day after day, so it’s a perfect match with our outfits and the colours of the city,” she remarked, referring to the unity in identity shared by fans and players alike.
Her engagement with the team spirit extended beyond casual wear; Shannon wore a custom Reese’s jacket to Game 4, joining her friend Ali Brunson, wife of Josh’s teammate Jalen Brunson. “It’s just been fantastic and delicious,” she exclaimed, clearly enjoying the camaraderie fostered among the Knicks WAGs as they cheer on their husbands.
In a charming twist, Shannon has also adopted her own good luck charms for the crucial games. Alongside her rituals, she carries a significant blue YSL purse, a piece she brought along for the intense Game 4, during which the Knicks achieved a thrilling comeback victory. “I’m not trying to copy anyone, but it was an incredible win, so I’m bringing it back,” she said with a sense of determination.
Additionally, she places great significance on her jewellery, which serves as a reminder of her husband’s commitment and their life together. “I always wear this cross necklace and a piece bearing my husband’s name. I wouldn’t dare take them off on game days,” she stated. This blend of personal items and superstitions reflects her deep connection to both her husband and the Knicks’ journey through the finals.
As the Knicks and Spurs face off in Game 5, Shannon’s superstitions and supportive gestures exemplify the passion and tradition that permeate the world of sports. With the stakes at their highest, her dedication and heartfelt involvement highlight the role that family support plays in an athlete’s performance.
Looking ahead, Shannon Hart is set to continue inspiring both her husband and fellow Knicks fans as they aim for the coveted championship trophy. Whether through her unique rituals or her fashionable flair, she remains steadfast in her commitment to cheering for Josh and the team, embodying the spirit of the game both on and off the court. As the countdown to Game 5 begins, her blend of superstition and pride perfectly captures the essence of being part of a championship team.