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Elmo Criticized by Knicks Fans for Neutral NBA Finals Post

BBC Sport •
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New York Knicks fans are furious with Elmo after the Sesame Street character refused to take sides in the NBA Finals. The red puppet posted on X saying "Elmo hopes both teams have fun!" which sparked outrage across social media platforms.

Fans accused the Manhattan-based character of being a "traitor" and demanded he support his hometown team. The New York Knicks currently lead their championship series against the San Antonio Spurs, marking their first Finals appearance since 1999. City agencies joined the backlash, with the NYPD calling Elmo an "imposter" and transportation officials threatening to remove the Sesame Street sign.

Elmo later clarified his stance with a playful apology: "KNICKS that last message! Elmo didn't mean to SPUR you on!" The controversy reflects how deeply New Yorkers embrace their team during this historic playoff run. Street celebrations and packed watch parties show the city's investment in ending their 25-year championship drought.

This incident demonstrates the intense passion surrounding the Knicks' rare Finals berth, where even beloved children's characters face pressure to pick a side. Elmo's neutral stance clashed with the city's all-or-nothing mentality during championship season.