Knicks' Jose Alvarado Traded Boxing for Basketball Scrappiness

The Boricua guard's early passion for boxing shaped his aggressive on-court style.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Jose Alvarado, a guard for the New York Knicks, grew up in Brooklyn with a passion for boxing that he learned from his father. Alvarado was trained in boxing as a child, quickly taking to the sport, but ultimately had to give it up. His early experience in the ring, however, has clearly influenced his aggressive, scrappy playing style on the basketball court.

Why it matters

Alvarado's background in boxing provides insight into his physical, combative style of play in the NBA, which has made him a fan favorite for his hustle and tenacity on the court. His transition from the boxing ring to the basketball court also reflects a common path for many athletes looking to channel their competitive spirit into a professional sports career.

The details

Alvarado's father, also named Jose Alvarado, was steering toward a professional boxing career before raising children took priority. The younger Alvarado was furnished with gloves, pads, and a mouthpiece, and was trained by his father inside their apartment. Alvarado proved to be a quick learner and loved the sport, but ultimately had to give it up, though the influence of his early boxing training is evident in his playing style today.

  • Alvarado grew up learning boxing from his father in Brooklyn.

The players

Jose Alvarado

A guard for the New York Knicks who grew up in Brooklyn with a passion for boxing that he learned from his father.

Jose Alvarado

Alvarado's father, who was steering toward a professional boxing career before raising children took priority.

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What they’re saying

“You want the real reason I stopped?”

— Jose Alvarado (New York Post)

The takeaway

Alvarado's background in boxing has clearly shaped his aggressive, scrappy playing style in the NBA, making him a fan favorite for his hustle and tenacity on the court. His transition from the boxing ring to the basketball court reflects a common path for many athletes looking to channel their competitive spirit into a professional sports career.