The 2022-23 season playoffs are well and truly here. A number of games have been played, and the first-round Eastern Conference matchup between the Cleveland Cavaliers and the New York Knicks saw heat before the game even started. Prior to the game, Josh Hart of the Knicks and the Cavs fanbase went back and forth under Donovan Mitchell‘s Instagram post. The game delivered on the expectations it had set as the Knicks beat the Cavs in a closely contested affair.

Knicks star Josh Hart had a special gesture for his teammate after the match. Following Jalen Brunson’s heroic efforts to take his team across the line, Hart donned a special t-shirt to celebrate his performance. However, NBA fans on Twitter were quick to call out his ‘corny’ antics.

NBA fans bash Knicks star for his antic

The New York Knicks are finally at full strength and it is more than evident in their game. Jalen Brunson and Co fended off the Cleveland Cavaliers including a last-ditch effort by Donovan Mitchell to clinch game 1 of the series. Josh Hart, who came off the bench, played a crucial role as he scored 17 points and 10 rebounds. However, it was his post-game interview that stole most of the headlines.

Hart sported a Jalen Brunson t-shirt with his Slam magazine cover photo. The reporters present quickly took note and let Brunson know who was visibly surprised at the revelation. 

When asked about Hart’s performance during the game, Brunson said, “Unreal. That’s just what he does.” The former Dallas Mavericks star praised his teammate’s performance before being interrupted by a reporter. The reporter said, “Are you just saying that because he’s wearing your face on his shirt?”. That’s when Brunson had a look at Hart’s t-shirt which he was sporting with a proud smile himself.

Although Brunson too surely felt proud to see his face on the t-shirt, the same cannot be said about the NBA world. Fans criticized Hart’s gesture with some harshly mocking him. Take a look at some reactions below.

Hart also faced the wrath of the NBA world prior to the matchup. Newest Cav Donovan Mitchell had posted a hype video on his Instagram account which drew an interesting response from the Knicks star.

Hart commented, “Fu** You” under the post with numerous other Knicks fans also letting out their angry thoughts. Interestingly, he deleted the profane comment a short while after he posted it. Although Hart and the Knicks had the last laugh in game 1, Donovan Mitchell and the Cavs will certainly look to take revenge in game 2 which will be played on April 18th.

WATCH THIS STORY: After a 71-point heroic performance, Donovan Mitchell joins an elite 3-man list.

Judging by the drama, the series is surely going to be an exciting watch. What are your predictions for game 2? Share your thoughts in the comments below!