As New York celebrated the Knicks’ thrilling run up tothe NBA Finals and their decisive Game 5 victory at Madison Square Garden, the energy was electric. The championship energy and spirit of MSG brought back a wave of memories for Migdal Ohr, when the Garden became a bridge between Israel and America.

Picture this scene...

On October 11, 2007, more than 18,000 fans filled the arena for a friendship game between Maccabi Tel Aviv and the New York Knicks, benefiting the orphaned and underprivileged children of Migdal Ohr.

Israeli flags waved throughout the stands. The giant screens introduced thousands of fans to the children of Migdal Ohr and to the life-changing work of Rabbi Yitzchak Dovid Grossman.

Then came a moment that defined the night.

Rabbi Grossman walked onto center court.

The entire arena rose to its feet.

In that moment, Madison Square Garden was no longer just a sports arena. It became a space of unity and unapologetic Jewish pride.

[Video of RG reciting Shema] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C8S49320hMY

The memories from that era extended far beyond the game itself.

In another unforgettable moment, a heated exchange broke out on the court between Maccabi Tel Aviv coach Pini Gershon and the New York Knicks coach. Rabbi Grossman stepped in to calm the situation, diffusing the tension in his signature way.

The connection between NBA legends and Migdal Ohr did not end in New York.

[Video of NBA trip to Israel] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ghrOrP_KuGI

Several NBA greats later traveled to Israel, where they visited Migdal Ohr campuses, met the children, and led basketball clinics. They shared their skills on the court, but more importantly, they shared encouragement, attention, and belief in each child’s potential.

NBA Hall of Famer and Migdal Ohr board member Rick Barry taught Rabbi Grossman his world-famous underhand free throw. When the Rabbi successfully made the shot, the Migdal Ohr children went wild!!!!!!!!!!!

For the children of Migdal Ohr, these are memories they will never forget. They met giants who saw them as heroes, appreciated their struggles, and made them feel like they were the all-stars!

These memories remind us of the unique ability of sports to bridge worlds and Rabbi Grossman’s extraordinary capacity to inspire everyone, from NBA legends to orphaned children, and to bring people together in support of our mission.

It's great to see NY take back the Garden and feel the city with pride!

Congrats from Israel! GO New York, GO New York, GO!

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