New York Knicks player Tyler Kolek has ignited a debate by labeling pop superstar Taylor Swift as the "fakest" celebrity fan who attended the team's championship run. The comments were made during an NBA 2K stream on TikTok alongside teammate Deuce McBride.
When asked to identify the least genuine celebrity fan they encountered, Kolek pointed to Swift, stating, "I don't know if I've seen her at any other games." McBride acknowledged that "Swifties not gonna like that answer."
Kolek contrasted Swift with other celebrity attendees like actors Ben Stiller and Tracy Morgan, whom he considered more consistent fans. He added that while Swift "has a lot going on," her frequent appearances during the Knicks' successful season were questionable.
Swift has become a prominent figure in NBA fandom, particularly with her relationship with Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce and her attendance at various games, including those of the Knicks during their playoff push. Her presence has often drawn significant attention, including broadcast cutaways, which some critics, like the article from Fox News, suggest are performative.
The article implied that Swift's presence, sometimes alongside friends like the Haim sisters and actress Mariska Hargitay, was more about branding and spotlight than genuine fan support, contrasting it with the team's long history of "pure misery" before their recent success.
Kolek's remarks have drawn a strong reaction from Swift's fanbase, with many already voicing their displeasure online. The discussion touches on the nature of celebrity fandom and whether consistent attendance is a prerequisite for genuine support.