In the world of tattoo culture, there are always people ready to express their devotion through body art. Recently, an event in New York caused a real sensation among basketball fans and tattoo enthusiasts. Matt McAllister, a Staten Island resident, decided to get a tattoo that not only reflects his love for the “New York Knicks” team but also became a true work of art.
The Tattoo That Shocked Even Legends
Matt McAllister, 34, decided to immortalize the great Knicks players on his back. He chose the “Mount Rushmore” format, where instead of US presidents, the team’s legends are depicted: Jalen Brunson, John Starks, Walt Frazier, Patrick Ewing, and Carmelo Anthony. This idea came to him after a season where the team took second place in the Eastern Conference but lost in the conference finals to the Indiana Pacers.
The tattoo was created by artist Tom Sanford and applied by Sonya Elise at Bullseye Tattoos on Staten Island. The process took 36 hours, divided into six sessions, and cost Matt $9,000. MSG, one of the largest sports media holdings, even filmed this process for a commercial.
Stars’ Reaction
When Matt showed his tattoo to Jalen Brunson, the team captain, he was amazed. “He seems like a man of few words, but he said, ‘Oh, that’s tough,'” Matt recounted. “Then he added, ‘But there are only four on Rushmore.’ I replied that I added a fifth one specifically for him.” Brunson was so impressed that he even asked for a photo. Josh Hart also expressed his surprise and admiration.
Other Fan Stories
Matt isn’t the only one who decided to express his devotion to the team through a tattoo. Ray Rosado, a teacher from Yonkers, got a tattoo of Brunson praying during the first game of the 2025 conference finals. This tattoo cost him $1,350 and was done by artist Chico. “I’m not very religious, but this moment symbolized that great things were coming,” Ray explained.
Nolan Parr from Queens also decided to immortalize Brunson. He got a tattoo of the player’s famous gesture, which cost $800. “My father was a Knicks fan for a long time, and we often argued about who was better, Clyde or Jalen,” Nolan shared.
Mirko Falzone from Bergamo, Italy, although he has never attended a Knicks game, also got a tattoo of Brunson. He woke up at 2 AM to watch the games and decided to immortalize this moment on his body. The tattoo took 20 hours and was done by artist Mirko Ponti.
Expert Analysis
Tattoos dedicated to sports teams and players are becoming increasingly popular. It’s not just a way to express loyalty but also an opportunity to create a unique work of art. In Matt McAllister’s case, his tattoo has become a true symbol of love for the Knicks and respect for the team’s legends. Other fans, like Ray, Nolan, and Mirko, have also chosen this path to express their devotion.
In the world of tattoo culture, such stories become legends, inspiring others to create their own unique works of art. Tattoos not only adorn the body but also tell stories that will live forever.