New on View: New York Knicks Jersey Honoring Firefighters and Their Families
Visitors to the 9/11 Memorial Museum can see a new artifact in the pavilion case adjacent to the auditorium. This game-worn jersey by former New York Knicks player Kristaps Porzingis, who recently joined the Dallas Mavericks, coincides with the final months of the special exhibition "Comeback Season: Sports After 9/11."
The New York Knicks unveiled the 2018 City Edition alternate jersey in January 2018 for their remaining home games that season. The design honored firefighters and their families and continued a longstanding tradition to recognize the sacrifice of public safety personnel. Following the season, the team generously donated this jersey to the 9/11 Memorial Museum.
In the first months after 9/11, sports leagues and teams made a conscious effort to acknowledge the national tragedy. They invited victims' families to games, provided financial support and, in some cases, created visible tributes on their uniforms. Almost two decades after 9/11, the New York Knicks city edition jerseys continued this tradition.
The front of the jersey features a version of the Maltese cross used by the FDNY. It includes a hook and ladder and a fire hydrant. The jersey “credits the brave firefighters of New York City. The reflective team logo mirrors the iconic Fire Department crest, while colors and details take inspiration from the turnout gear worn in the heat of battle,” according to Nike’s website.
As you visit the upstairs atrium terrace, please also take time to see the flag from Ground Zero as well as the “Facing Crisis” films that play throughout the day in the auditorium.
By Timothy McGuirk, Communications Manager, 9/11 Memorial & Museum
During the temporary suspension of regular-season play following the 9/11 attacks, Jets and Giants players visited Ground Zero, using their celebrity to buoy morale among the men and woman working in the wreckage.
Now on view in the 9/11 Memorial Museum, Ted Sjurseth’s tribute motorcycle.