New York Knicks owner James Dolan urged players to consider abstaining from sex during the team's playoff run, invoking the Spartans as a model of discipline, according to a video released Monday by the Roommates Show podcast.
Dolan's Surprise Speech
In a surprise address to the team on April 3, Dolan told players: "I had this idea that maybe you should give up sex for the next 10 weeks. The Spartans, they denied themselves, right, so they can have an edge. Get the edge." The speech came as the Knicks prepared for what would become a championship-winning postseason.
Dolan framed the suggestion as part of a broader appeal for sacrifice, urging players to improve their diets, prioritize sleep, and eliminate distractions. "It's not a long time," he said. "Sacrifice everything you've got these next 10 weeks to win that championship."
Championship Drought Ended
The Knicks went on to win the franchise's first NBA title since 1973, defeating the San Antonio Spurs in five games. They finished the regular season with four wins in their final five games before storming through the playoffs with a 16-3 record.
Dolan also acknowledged the role of players' families, saying: "Go home, talk to your wives. Don't tell them it was my idea. But let them know what this commitment is going to be like, and how they're going to have to sacrifice too." A source told SNY that players were surprised but the words resonated.
Coach Brown's Response
Head coach Mike Brown, in his first season after replacing Tom Thibodeau, told the New York Post he had no intention of following the owner's advice. "There was no way that I could get that done," Brown said.
Dolan's speech also addressed the controversial coaching change, telling players the roster was talented enough to compete but needed a more collaborative approach.
