Elmo posted a neutral message on social media just before the first NBA Finals game, saying, "Elmo hopes both teams have fun!" referring to the New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs [1, 2]. The message drew strong backlash from Knicks fans, who called Elmo a coward and urged him to support their team exclusively [1, 2].
The NBA Finals opened with the Knicks winning Game 1 against the Spurs, marking a return to the finals for the Knicks since 1999 [1, 2]. Knicks fans’ anger partially stems from Sesame Street’s deep New York roots, including the renaming of a street to Sesame Street on West 63rd Avenue in 2019 to mark the show’s 50th anniversary [1, 2].
In an attempt to ease tensions, Elmo issued a pun-filled follow-up message on Thursday, stating, "KNICKS that last message! Elmo didn’t mean to SPUR you on!" [1, 2]. Meanwhile, the Spurs embraced Elmo’s neutral stance, posting a photo of an Elmo plush toy dressed in Spurs apparel before Game 2 [2].
Elmo’s original post attracted around eight million likes, demonstrating widespread attention despite the divided reactions [1]. The Knicks last won an NBA championship in 1973, heightening fan emotions around the finals appearance this year [2].
Adding to the New York connection, former President Donald Trump, a longtime Knicks supporter, accepted an invitation to attend Game 3 of the finals at Madison Square Garden on Sunday, saying, "The answer is yes – he’s invited me, I’m going." [1].
Game 3 is scheduled for Sunday at Madison Square Garden in New York, promising a lively atmosphere as the series continues [2].
