Jose Alvarado Has Chance to Become Next Beloved Knicks Native

Knicks rookie guard from New York City aims to follow in footsteps of Knicks legend Carl Braun

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Jose Alvarado, a rookie guard for the New York Knicks, has a chance to become the next beloved native son of the team and city. Alvarado, who grew up in Manhattan, is looking to follow in the footsteps of Knicks legend Carl Braun, who was the first New York City-born player to star for the Knicks in the 1950s.

Why it matters

Knicks fans have a deep affinity for homegrown talent, and Alvarado's local roots could make him a fan favorite if he is able to develop into a star player for the team. The Knicks have struggled to find consistent success in recent decades, so a breakout performance from a local product like Alvarado would be a feel-good story for the franchise and its passionate fanbase.

The details

Braun, who was born in Brooklyn and starred at Adelphi Academy in Bay Ridge before his family moved to Garden City, joined the Knicks in their second season in 1946. After serving two years in the Army, Braun returned to the Knicks in 1952 and became a five-time NBA All-Star, helping lead the team to the NBA Finals that year. Braun was a beloved figure among Knicks fans during the team's early years due to his local roots and star-caliber play.

  • Braun joined the Knicks in their second season in 1946.
  • Braun returned to the Knicks in 1952 after serving two years in the Army.
  • Braun became a five-time NBA All-Star in the 1950s.

The players

Jose Alvarado

A rookie guard for the New York Knicks who grew up in Manhattan.

Carl Braun

A Knicks legend in the 1950s who was the first New York City-born player to star for the team.

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What they’re saying

“Then, I found the Knicks. And it was magic, all of it.”

— Carl Braun (New York Post)

The takeaway

Alvarado's local roots and potential to become a star player for the Knicks could make him the next beloved native son of the team and city, following in the footsteps of Knicks legend Carl Braun who was the first New York City-born player to achieve stardom with the franchise.