Kemba Walker's arrival to his hometown Knicks was years in the making, courtesy of Walker's new teammate Taj Gibson.
Gibson, a Brooklyn native entering his third season in New York, apparently tried to recruit Walker during games when the two would play against each other, as Gibson would repeat the same two words to Walker during free throws.
"Come home," Gibson would say.
Gibson's vision has come true, and with another Brooklyn native in Obi Toppin part of the fold, the Knicks have a trio of New York natives that can make an impact this season.
"It's pretty special," Walker said. "I've known Taj for a very long time. He's been trying to get me to come here for forever. It's definitely very, very comforting knowing these guys, watching them from afar, and then coming here and having that connection."
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Walker became a star at Madison Square Garden during his days at UConn, and now, maybe with a little help from Gibson's urging, he will hear his name cheered at The World's Most Famous Arena in his homecoming season.
"Every team gives you sweatsuits and bags," Walker said. "My New York sweatsuit just hit a little bit different"
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