Knicks' Jose Alvarado Embraces GTA-Themed Nickname with New Jersey Number

The former No. 15 will wear No. 5 for the New York Knicks, fully embracing his 'Grand Theft Alvarado' moniker.

Feb. 6, 2026 at 6:39pm

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Jose Alvarado, the Knicks' recent trade deadline acquisition, is embracing the 'Grand Theft Alvarado' nickname that fans have given him due to his tenacious defense and high-motor playing style. The undrafted point guard from Georgia Tech will wear No. 5 for the Knicks, a nod to the popular 'Grand Theft Auto 5' video game. Alvarado is known for his ability to catch opponents by surprise, knocking the ball loose and driving to the basket, which has led to the birth of his GTA-inspired nickname.

Why it matters

Alvarado's nickname and jersey number change are a hit with the Knicks' passionate fan base, who crave the type of high-intensity, disruptive play that the 6-foot guard brings to the team. His embrace of the 'Grand Theft Alvarado' moniker further endears him to the New York faithful, who will be eager to see him make his Knicks debut.

The details

The Knicks acquired Alvarado from the New Orleans Pelicans ahead of the trade deadline, sending two future second-round picks and Dalen Terry in exchange. New York head coach Mike Brown is expected to trust Alvarado to bring energy and intensity off the bench, as well as his signature 'sneak attack' defensive style. Alvarado is averaging 7.9 points, 3.1 assists, 2.8 rebounds and 0.9 steals per game this season while shooting 41.8% from the field and 36.3% from 3-point range.

  • Alvarado was traded to the Knicks ahead of the 2026 NBA trade deadline.

The players

Jose Alvarado

A 6-foot point guard who was recently acquired by the New York Knicks from the New Orleans Pelicans. Alvarado is known for his tenacious defense and high-motor playing style, which has led to the creation of his 'Grand Theft Alvarado' nickname.

Mike Brown

The head coach of the New York Knicks, who is expected to trust Alvarado to bring energy and intensity off the bench.

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What’s next

Alvarado will make his Knicks debut on Friday night against the Detroit Pistons.

The takeaway

Jose Alvarado's embrace of the 'Grand Theft Alvarado' nickname and his new jersey number 5 further endears him to the passionate Knicks fan base, who will be eager to see the undrafted guard's high-intensity, disruptive style of play on the court.