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Dvar Torah: Yitro and the New York Knicks Championship
Jun
By Jonathan Brody
Upon returning from the FJMC retreat, I find myself reflecting on a weekend that perfectly combined the holiness of Shabbat with a deep sense of brotherhood. This biennial event, held at Camp Zeke in the scenic Pocono Mountains, provides a much-needed sanctuary from the fast-paced life of New York. It allowed us to bond with fellow FJMC brothers while surrounded by fresh mountain air and a tranquil lake. The hospitality was outstanding, and the meals were consistently excellent. The weekend was a vibrant mix of social and FJMC programming, featuring moving Shabbat services and a powerful Havdalah bonfire. Our legendary evening gatherings were filled with snacks, scotch, and meaningful schmoozing. The true highlight, however, was our shared experience watching Game 5 of the NBA Finals. Although there was concern about how to view the game on a Saturday night, a resourceful brother secured a television, turning our communal space into a makeshift arena. Seeing roughly 40 of us crowded into that same room for a massive viewing party was truly incredible.
I mentioned that The New York Knicks’ championship-clinching victory on June 13, 2026—exactly 6/13—sparked viral discussions among Jewish fans. The date beautifully aligns with the 613 mitzvot (commandments) in the Torah and the 613 career wins of legendary Jewish Knicks coach Red Holzman, whose retired number hangs in Madison Square Garden.
There are many Jewish connections to the NY Knicks and the win on 6-13.
The anthem of the New York Knicks playing before and during every home game for the Knicks at Madison Square Garden is American entrepreneur, author, songwriter and rapper Jesse Itzler.
The official Knicks logo, introduced in 1991, was designed by Jewish artist Michael Doret.
The Knicks’ All-Star captain and MVP is married to Dr. Alison Marks Brunson, whois Jewish. Their wedding incorporated Jewish themes. Their union has been widely celebrated by Jewish fans across New York.
Well before he began assembling the Knicks’ current lineup, Leon Rose was coaching at a South Jersey JCC. In June 2025, Rose was recognized by the UJA-Federation of New York with the David J. Stern Leadership Award. This honor, named for the legendary Jewish NBA commissioner, is presented each year to a prominent sports figure whose career reflects Stern’s commitment to professional excellence, generosity, and social responsibility.
Leon’s father, Zev Rose, is a highly respected figure within the South Jersey Jewish community, having recently received a lifetime service award from Congregation Beth El in Voorhees and served on the board of the Jewish Federation of South Jersey. Known for his signature unlit victory cigar, Zev is a constant presence at his son’s games.
While the Parsha Yitro and the Knicks’ championship run may seem like two completely separate universes, the connections are profound when you look at themes of building community, the structure of leadership, and New York’s cultural fabric:
Decentralizing Leadership and Teamwork (Delegation)
In Parsha Yitro (found in the Book of Exodus), Moses’ father-in-law, Yitro, observes him trying to judge and lead the entire Israelite nation alone. Yitro famously tells Moses (Exodus 18:18), “The thing you are doing is not good… you will surely wear yourself out.” Yitro advises Moses to delegate authority and build a tiered system of leadership (leaders of thousands, hundreds, fifties, and tens).
This directly mirrors how the Knicks’ championship roster was constructed. For years, the team relied heavily on a few isolated stars and struggled. The 2026 title was won through a cohesive, deeply collaborative team culture featuring stars like Jalen Brunson, OG Anunoby, Karl-Anthony Towns, and Josh Hart sharing the load. Just as Yitro taught Moses that a functioning society requires empowering the whole team, Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau built a resilient roster where every piece mattered.
The Number 613
The serendipitous timing of the Knicks securing the title on 6/13 bridges basketball to Parsha Yitro. The 613 mitzvot in the Torah are the foundation of Jewish law and community action. When reflecting on the Knicks’ historic 2026 championship over the San Antonio Spurs, many Jewish New Yorkers marvelled at this numericalsymmetry. In Jewish tradition, the 613 commandments are a roadmap for living a purpose-driven life, while Knicks fans look at 613 as a legendary legacy number for their franchise.
The Mosaic of New York
Yitro brings a powerful outsider’s perspective to the Jewish people, symbolizing how diverse cultures and traditions blend together. New York City, which is widely considered the US’s most Jewish city, has an incredibly diverse cultural landscape. During the historic playoff run that led to the 2026 title, Jewish New Yorkers deeply connected with the grit and determination of the Knicks. The team’s resilience became a unifying point for the city across religious, cultural, and political lines.
by Jonathan Brody, Executive VP Finance, New York Metro Region, Midway Jewish Center