Precious Achiuwa Reacts to Knicks’ First Championship in 53 Years With SpongeBob Meme

Former New York Knicks forward Precious Achiuwa shared a “SpongeBob SquarePants” meme on social media following the team’s first NBA championship in 53 years, sparking fan reactions that highlighted his role in the franchise’s historic run. Achiuwa, who played for the Knicks during the 2023-24 season and re-signed for 2024-25, was traded to the Sacramento Kings in November 2024, missing the Finals victory over the Spurs, according to the New York Post.

What led to Achiuwa’s social media post?

Achiuwa posted a meme depicting SpongeBob and Patrick celebrating outside while Squidward watches through a window, an apparent nod to feeling excluded from the Knicks’ championship celebration. The post came an hour after the Knicks’ Game 5 Finals win, which marked their first title since 1973. Achiuwa, who averaged 7.1 points and 6.3 rebounds per game during his two seasons with New York, had been traded alongside OG Anunoby in 2023, the Post reported.

How did Knicks fans respond to Achiuwa’s post?

Knicks supporters flooded Achiuwa’s social media with messages emphasizing his status as “once a Knick, always a Knick.” One fan wrote, “Fans ain’t forget your bro. Once a Knick Always a Knick. Thank you for your time with the team,” while another added, “This is your ring too my man, you helped us get here.” The sentiment reflected broader fan appreciation for players who contributed to the team’s playoff journey, even if they were not on the final roster.

What is Achiuwa’s current status in the NBA?

Achiuwa signed with the Kings in November 2024, according to NBA transactions records, just weeks before the Knicks’ championship run. His departure came after a 2023-24 season in which he appeared in 106 games, shooting 51.3% from the field, and 17 playoff games, averaging 3.6 points per contest. Despite not winning a ring, his contributions during the regular season were acknowledged by fans as part of the team’s foundation, per the Post.

Why does Achiuwa’s reaction matter to Knicks history?

The Knicks’ 2024 championship ended a 53-year title drought, making it one of the most significant moments in franchise history. Achiuwa’s meme highlighted the emotional complexity of such victories, as players who left the team before the final stretch still felt connected to the success. This dynamic is common in sports, where fans often recognize the efforts of former players who contributed to a team’s resurgence, as seen with the 2023-24 roster’s blend of veteran and younger talent.

What does this reveal about fan culture in the NBA?

The outpouring of support for Achiuwa underscores the loyalty of NBA fans, who often celebrate collective achievements rather than solely focusing on final rosters. Similar reactions occurred during the 2023 Clippers’ playoff run, when fans praised players like Marcus Morris Sr., who was traded before the Finals. In Achiuwa’s case, his 2023-24 performance and playoff appearances solidified his place in the narrative of the Knicks’ championship journey, according to sports analysts covering the team.