Knicks fans take over 76ers’ home arena — again

PHILADELPHIA — Xfinity Mobile Arena is truly Madison Square Garden South.

Knicks fans have taken over the arena twice this season, and were in full voice during the 138-89 Knicks rout of the 76ers on Wednesday night.

“It’s fun,” Josh Hart said. “Kind of getting used to it now. Everywhere on the East Coast it’s really Knick fans coming out and showing love. Boston is tough obviously. Everywhere else we feel like we always have the majority of the fans on the East Coast. Shoutout to them.

“They come and show love and we appreciate it.”

New York Knicks guard Jordan Clarkson (00) and guard Josh Hart (3) talk during a timeout in the second half against the Philadelphia 76ers at Xfinity Mobile Arena on Feb. 11, 2026. Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

Jose Alvarado, who made his MSG debut in his hometown New York City on Tuesday, was serenaded like it was another homecoming.

Chants of “Jose, Jose, Jose, Jose” rang around the arena as he erupted in the fourth quarter.

“I see the fans, their energy is unmatched,” Alvarado said. “They show their support, they’re gonna use their voice and it gets me going, so I’m gonna do the same energy back for them.”

Jose Alvarado was serenaded by Knicks fans throughout their 138-89 blowout win over the 76ers on Feb. 11, 2026 in Philadelphia. Getty Images

The Knicks went into the All-Star break with their best representation of one of coach Mike Brown’s core principles.

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They recorded 41 total assists Wednesday, the most they’ve had in a game this season.

“I’m blown away with our guys’ ability to share the basketball with one another,” Brown said. “A lot of good playmakers, a lot of good passers, so to see that was a lot of fun.”

Hart led the way in that department with nine. All five starters had four or more.

OG Anunoby’s injury is a bit grosser than originally thought.

He missed his fourth straight game, the last game before the All-Star break.

The Knicks originally listed his ailment as right toe soreness, but earlier this week changed it to right toenail avulsion.

Brown said before Wednesday’s game that it’s not expected to be a long-term problem after the All-Star break, designating him day to day.

The 76ers were without Joel Embiid (knee) and Quentin Grimes (illness).

And they still don’t have Paul George, who is suspended.