Particle.news
Download on the App Store
7 ARTICLES
·
4d ago

Spike Lee Will Wear Pope Leo XIV‑Signed Knicks Jersey at Game 3

The move links a pope’s autograph to celebrity courtside culture at Madison Square Garden during the Knicks’ first home Finals game in 27 years.

Image
Image
An image collage containing 3 images, Image 1 shows Spike Lee with his Pope Leo jersey during Game 2 of the first round against the Hawks, Image 2 shows Jeremy Lin and Spike Lee pose for a photo before the game between the San Antonio Spurs and the New York Knicks during Game Three of the 2026 NBA Finals on June 8, 2026 at Madison Square Garden in New York, New York, Image 3 shows Pope Leo XIV smiling, wearing white papal attire and a silver crucifix
Jun 8, 2026; New York, New York, USA; American filmmaker Spike Lee looks on before game three of the 2026 NBA Finals between the New York Knicks and the San Antonio Spurs at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

Overview

  • Spike Lee posted on Instagram Monday saying he will wear a Number 14 Knicks jersey autographed by Pope Leo XIV for Game 3 of the NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden.
  • Lee obtained the signed jersey when he met Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican on November 15, 2025 and posted video of that meeting with his announcement.
  • Pope Leo XIV is reported to be U.S.-born with Chicago roots and a Villanova background, which media note as a cultural link to several Knicks players.
  • Sporting News and other outlets point out the 2:30 a.m. local start time in Vatican City makes it unlikely the pope will watch the game live despite his signature on the jersey.
  • Lee’s decision amplified national attention on the Knicks’ long-awaited home Finals appearance, drew celebrity interest at courtside and fed high ticket demand and social‑media coverage.