The New York Knicks will be heading to the White House after their historic championship run, according to team owner James Dolan.
Dolan confirmed Wednesday that the organization received and accepted an official invitation following last week’s title victory. Speaking on WFAN Sports Radio, he said, “We just did receive an invitation from the White House, which we accepted. We still have to figure out the details.”
The White House had not responded to media requests for comment at the time of the report.
Dolan, who had previously invited U.S. President Donald Trump to attend Game 3 of the NBA Finals earlier this month and referred to Trump as a personal friend, made the announcement during the radio appearance.
The Knicks clinched their first NBA championship since 1973 on Saturday, defeating the San Antonio Spurs 94-90.
A presidential White House visit following a major sports championship is a longstanding tradition. Throughout Trump’s two terms in office, most championship teams have honored the tradition, though some have chosen to decline.
Last year, several Philadelphia Eagles players — including quarterback Jalen Hurts — sat out the White House ceremony after the NFL team won the Super Bowl.
It remains to be seen whether the entire Knicks roster will participate in the upcoming visit. However, point guard Jose Alvarado made clear he plans to be there. “If there’s a chance, I’m going wherever my teammate goes,” Alvarado told TMZ.
