Walt Frazier Recalls Knicks Glory and Broadcasting Career

Walt Frazier, the Hall of Fame guard who helped the New York Knicks win NBA championships in 1970 and 1973, has reflected on his playing career, distinctive fashion, and decades as a broadcaster. In interviews published by Posting & Toasting and HoopsHype on October 20, 2026, Frazier revisited the Knicks' championship legacy, Willis Reed's memorable return during the 1970 NBA Finals, and his continued connection to the franchise.

Frazier's performance in Game 7 of the 1970 NBA Finals against the Los Angeles Lakers remains a defining moment in his career. He scored 36 points, recorded 19 assists and seven rebounds, and converted all 12 free throws as New York captured its first NBA championship.

The Knicks' victory also featured Reed's unexpected appearance before tipoff. Despite a serious leg injury, the team captain emerged from the tunnel before the decisive game, inspiring teammates who had not known he would play.

Frazier recalled that the players were unaware Reed intended to appear on the court that night.

"People thought it was premeditated, but we did not know he was coming. So when we came on the court, we were just as flabbergasted as everybody else when we saw him," Frazier said.

Reed made his first two shots before leaving the game, while Frazier produced a career-defining performance. Frazier credited Reed's presence with strengthening the team's confidence before the decisive contest.

"By seeing him, it gave us so much confidence. And obviously, he started the game. He made his first two shots. And I thought the Lakers were psyched out from that point, and I would have the game of my life," Frazier said.

In his HoopsHype interview, Frazier also discussed the attention Reed received for playing through his injury. Although he initially felt disappointed that his own performance received less recognition, he said he understood how Reed's courage contributed to the victory.

"Well, yeah, I was pissed at the time. You know, I was 25 years old, and I was trying to get on par with Oscar Robertson and Jerry West. They were considered the best players in the game.

But if Willis Reed didn't do what he did, I would not have had that game. Seeing Willis Reed on the court gave me so much confidence. And then the crowd got involved.

And from that, they made me think that I could do anything. And that's why I had that particular game. So I never held a grudge against Willis.

You know, he did nothing. I mean, again, I know that if he didn't come out and show the courage that he did, I would not have had my best game ever," Frazier said.

Beyond basketball, Frazier developed a distinctive public image through tailored suits, wide-brimmed hats, and fur coats. In his Posting & Toasting interview, he attributed his fashion influences to New York City's cultural atmosphere and the Motown performers he admired during his playing years.

Frazier described New York as central to the development of his personal style.

"Coming to the Mecca. New York City. Fashion, passion," Frazier said.

During his playing career, Knicks players wore suits and ties to games, creating opportunities to express their individual styles. Frazier said musical groups influenced the way he and his teammates dressed and presented themselves.

"When we played, we wore suits and ties to the game. We were always trying to outdress each other. Our idols were The Temptations, The Four Tops. So we emulated the way these guys performed," Frazier said.

Frazier also compared the Motown influence on his generation with hip-hop's impact on contemporary NBA fashion. His wide-brimmed hat helped establish the nickname Clyde, which became a lasting part of his identity.

"Today you see the guys dressed like the rappers… our style was created from Motown. And I took it to another level with the Clyde. One day I bought this wide-brimmed hat and I wore it to the game and everybody go, hey, look at Clyde. And I used to steal the ball on the court," Frazier said.

His influence extended into the footwear industry. According to the Posting & Toasting interview, Frazier became the first player to endorse a sneaker, with the Puma Clyde launching in 1973.

"Then I was blessed enough to be the first guy to endorse a sneaker, the Puma Clyde in 1973. So that was the evolution of the mink coat, the Rolls Royce. So it was just my being around New York and observing people watching the Clyde persona personified," Frazier said.

Frazier entered broadcasting in 1987 and is approaching his 40th season calling Knicks games. He told HoopsHype that he had originally considered coaching and had not anticipated building a career as a sports broadcaster.

His continued role with the franchise has allowed him to remain connected to the team and its supporters at Madison Square Garden. Frazier also highlighted his involvement in community work through AT&T.

"I never thought I'd be in sports casting, and maybe coaching. So it was serendipitous that I got into it, but I love my job. I can't believe my good fortune now that I've not only seen three Knicks championships in my life, and still relevant with the team. And again, now in the world's most famous arena, the greatest city, the best fans, and now giving back to the community as well, working with AT&T," Frazier said.

Frazier's playing honors include seven All-Star selections and four All-NBA First Team selections. He entered the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1987 and was later named to the NBA's 50th and 75th Anniversary Teams.