Knicks surprise R.J. Barrett with an epic introduction at Madison Square Garden

Stan Temming
R.J. Barrett, the third overall pick in the NBA draft on Thursday night, had quite the experience when he walked into Madison Square Garden recently. (Twitter//@nyknicks)
R.J. Barrett, the third overall pick in the NBA draft on Thursday night, had quite the experience when he walked into Madison Square Garden recently. (Twitter//@nyknicks)

It’s been a busy few days for Canadian basketball phenom R.J. Barrett.

After a standout season with the Duke Blue Devils alongside Zion Williamson, the 19-year-old was selected third overall by the New York Knicks at the 2019 NBA draft on Thursday night. From that moment on, it’s been a whirlwind of activities and emotions for the young man that grew up in the Greater Toronto Area.

First, he had a powerful moment with his father, Rowan, while being interviewed shortly after the pick became official. The next day, he showed up to the New York Rangers NHL draft viewing party at Madison Square Garden alongside fellow countryman Ignas Brazdeikis to watch the Blueshirts select Finland’s Kaapo Kakko second overall.

On top of that, he got his first true introduction to the Garden as a member of the Knicks organization, receiving a special surprise from the franchise that hopes he’ll help them find success after years of mediocrity.

Walking into the arena, the lights went down on Barrett and what he saw quickly put a smile on his face.

After originally being caught off guard by the spectacle, Barrett embraced what was going on and began playing it up a bit for the few in attendance. But, the best part of the clip is watching Barrett mouth the words as NBA commissioner Adam Silver announces that he’s been selected is incredible.

We have a feeling that he’s watched the video of the moment a few times since it happened.

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