A win for the NY Knicks, Black men, and all of us!
Dear Beautiful Ones:
Anyone who knows me knows that I love to watch basketball and that I love my city!
So, needless to say, the NBA Finals have been absolutely thrilling!
It’s been hard to describe the palpable joy that’s been felt in NYC over the last few weeks, and it came to a feverish high on Saturday, June 13, when the NY Knicks became the 2026 NBA Finals Champions.
The last time they won, I was not yet (but soon to be) born! Over the last 5 years, I’ve delved deeper into the science, art, and sociology behind the game of basketball, so, naturally, I see this finals run and championship as much more than the NY Knicks winning a game.
And, I’ve read so many social posts that’ve made me smile, cry, and reflect since that day.A friend has repeatedly told me: “Basketball is life.” referring to the many analogies that can be made between the game of basketball, teamwork, commitment to practice, excellence that’s needed to play ball and LIFE.
That is absolutely true!
And, whether you realize it or not, you are also experiencing Black manhood on display in ways that the U.S. generally has not ever allowed for, due to anti-Black racism:
Black male joy.
Black male playfulness.
Black male humanity.
Black male humility.
Black male grief.
Black male leadership.
Black fatherhood and community.
Black male mentorship and support.
Black male excellence.
Black male friendship.
What other positive representations of Black manhood have you noticed as you reflect on the NY Knicks win?
A NY Knicks cap prominently and proudly displayed
I write this piece with an acknowledgment that the intersections of race, gender, and class are complex, and that we need to take time to explore and deconstruct them if we are working towards liberation for all.
In my Journey to Nia Workshops and Coaching, we delve into what anti-Black racism is, and how it prevents Black children from living in, and being seen in their full humanity.
And remember, Black children grow up to be Black adults.
We can stop the cycle of anti-Blackness, and create spaces where we won’t have to wait for an historic win to see Black children and adults of all genders and identities to be seen as their truly magical selves.
Join me in the Journey to Nia Summer Course at Bank Street College on July 22, the Journey to Nia Family Workshop on July 25th, or reach out to learn more.
Also: KNICKS IN FIVE!!!!
In community,
Takiema
For additional information, please contact info@anahsa.com
