Life-Long Friendship Revived at Knicks Championship Celebration

Two lifelong friends, Doug Bertinelli and Pat Hannafin, revisited a cherished moment from their past as they unrolled a banner from 1973, marking the last time the Knicks won an NBA championship. They arrived at this year’s ticker-tape parade with the same celebratory spirit, affirming their enduring love for the team.

Doug and Pat met in 1969 during their middle school years on Staten Island. As basketball teammates at Blessed Sacrament Roman Catholic Church, they enjoyed a successful season by winning a championship. Their passion for basketball didn’t stop there. In pursuit of seeing the Knicks win, they queued overnight outside Madison Square Garden to purchase tickets.

In 1973, they were high school seniors and shared a strong friendship. Doug, who earned a living as a part-time grocery cashier and stock boy, made it possible for them to attend another Knicks championship game. At the celebration, Pat created a memorable bedsheet banner, using a magic marker to capture the moment.

“Even though they lost, we ordered pizza,” Doug recalled.

This dedication to the team remained strong, despite the championship drought that followed. Over time, Pat stored the banner in his attic, but never lost his enthusiasm for New York sports. Becoming a frequent sign-holder at games, his collection of memorabilia grew.

Doug, now residing in Barnegat, New Jersey, regularly made the hour-long drive to Staten Island to join Pat for Knicks games. Their friendship endured various stages, including working in different garages for the Sanitation Department. Doug took on the role of a supervisor while Pat handled early shifts in Manhattan.

Their daughters were born close together — just three days apart, strengthening their bond. Doug often requested Pat as his colleague when schedules allowed, sharing routes and camaraderie.

Pat, who never adopted a cellphone, continues to use his longtime house phone. This familiarity ensures they stay connected, as Doug memorized Pat’s number long ago.

Returning to the celebration brought back memories of their teenage years, when finals tickets were less costly and tickets were sold in strips. The most touching moment for Pat was dusting off the old banner.

This championship celebration was notably larger, reflecting their shared joy in a long journey with the Knicks. Despite the geographical distance, their friendship and attachment to the team endure.