thecomeback
New York Knicks guard Tyler Kolek found himself in hot water this week after he labeled Taylor Swift as the team's most disingenuous celebrity supporter during a livestream. The remark did not sit well with Swift's dedicated fanbase, and the Knicks organization swiftly issued a statement distancing itself from Kolek's opinion.
Now, longtime New York sports personality Adam Schein has entered the conversation. While Schein expressed admiration for Kolek, he delivered an unambiguous message regarding Swift.
The incident occurred on Thursday when Kolek and teammate Miles "Deuce" McBride were playing NBA 2K on a TikTok livestream and were asked to identify the fakest celebrity Knicks fan. Kolek named Swift, though he conceded that her hectic schedule might explain her limited attendance at games.
"Maybe Taylor Swift?" Kolek said. "I don't know if I've seen her at any other games." McBride concurred, joking, "Swifties not gonna like that answer." The two also described Swift's appearances at Madison Square Garden as somewhat performative.
The Knicks were quick to respond. On Friday, the team released a statement supporting Swift. "Taylor Swift has been a Knicks fan for many years, has a long history with Madison Square Garden, and we are incredibly appreciative of her support of the organization," the Knicks said, via TMZ.
Swift's connection to the Knicks spans more than two decades. In 2003, at age 13, she performed at the Garden during a Knicks halftime talent contest for kids, and she has said that experience sparked her fandom. She was also courtside during the Knicks' championship run in June, and she and Travis Kelce got married at MSG in July.
Key Analysis
On Friday's episode of Schein Time, Schein made it clear that he stands with Swift, even though he is a fan of Kolek. "See, I don't want to be the guy who's ripping Tyler Kolek. But come on, Tyler," Schein said. "And everyone loves Tyler Kolek. And Tyler Kolek is having a really strong season. I'm a big Tyler Kolek fan. First of all, don't rip Taylor Swift. That should be a life motto. Second of all, she's a New Yorker. She's been coming to Knicks games since you've been at Marquette," Schein continued.
Schein also offered advice to the young guard, cautioning him against criticizing the pop superstar. "Just take a breath and whatever you do, just, it's not worth it," he said. "Why would you take a shot at Taylor Swift?" Kolek starred at Marquette from 2020 to 2024 before the Knicks selected him in the second round of the NBA Draft. As Schein pointed out, Swift's Knicks fandom predates Kolek's college career by a significant margin.
Originally reported by thecomeback.