Beloved comedian Richard Lewis, following a struggle with Parkinson’s disease, was a devoted Knicks enthusiast.
A familiar face courtside at Madison Square Garden for many years, Lewis penned about his passionate support for the Knicks, labeling the basketball team a “significant aspect” of his life.
“I have two driving forces,” Lewis expressed.
“One being the triumph of the Knicks in another championship, and the other, the quest for a partner who won’t eventually choose the opportune moment to symbolically pour lamb’s blood over my head in the presence of close companions.”
In a nostalgic reflection, Lewis recounted the Knicks’ presence in his life dating back to around 1949 when his father took his mother to a game as part of a romantic outing.
Recalling the iconic moment when Willis Reed valiantly took to the court on one leg, inspiring his team to victory against the formidable Lakers, Lewis reminisced, “While most of my relatives were likely engrossed in watching ‘My Mother, the Car,’ I found myself openly shedding tears as the legendary sportscaster Marv Albert, the voice of the Knicks, vividly narrated the game from a shabby TV perched high above a clamorous bar. Amidst distractions, including a nurse from Teaneck attempting to divert my attention with no success, I remained captivated.”
Lewis, a staunch Knicks supporter, remained unwavering in his allegiance to the team, as evidenced by his confession to a sports journalist that he continued to wear his “Knicks prayers” pajamas every preseason.
Reflecting on past experiences, Lewis shared anecdotes of attending the NBA Finals in Houston in 1994 and bringing his close friend, the renowned creator of “Seinfeld” and “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” Larry David, to the Finals in San Antonio in 1999.
“Richard and I entered this world just days apart in the same hospital, and he has been akin to a brother to me for the better part of my life,” David penned in a heartfelt statement. “His unmatched blend of humor and kindness has always been a rare gift. Yet today, he moved me to tears, a moment I may never forget.”
Despite the Knicks’ challenging seasons in the 21st century, Lewis clung to a whimsical hope that the team would eventually reclaim their former glory.
“As I take the stage in West Nyack at the age of 67, marking my 43rd year in stand-up comedy, I am resolute in my commitment to continue until the Knicks secure another Championship,” Lewis affirmed.