Mariska Hargitay Joins NBA Champions in Canyon of Heroes Parade: A Celebration of Friendship and Victory
The New York Knicks fans celebrated their 2026 NBA championship victory with a parade in the Canyon of Heroes in New York City. Actress Mariska Hargitay had a prime spot on one of the floats alongside NBA Finals MVP Jalen Brunson, his father Rick Brunson, Jalen's wife Ali Marks Brunson, and their daughter Jordyn. Mariska's son, August, also joined them on the float, wearing a custom "Marknickska Hargitay" shirt. The parade featured Mariska dancing and throwing t-shirts to the crowd as they made their way to city hall.
Other celebrities spotted at the parade included Timothée Chalamet, Martha Stewart, Spike Lee, Chris Rock, Tracy Morgan, and former Knicks players. Mariska, a devoted Knicks fan, has formed a close bond with the Brunson family. Her enthusiastic support for the team during Game 4 of the Finals, where the Knicks made a remarkable comeback from a 29-point deficit, has become a memorable part of the game's narrative.
Mariska described the game as one of the greatest nights of her life, emphasizing the team's resilience and determination. Jalen, a longtime fan of Mariska's show "Law & Order: SVU," has expressed his admiration for her work. His wife, Ali, appreciates their friendship and the connection between the two "captains." Jalen shared how his father's love for SVU influenced his own interest in the show, leading him to become a dedicated viewer over the years.
The camaraderie between Mariska and Jalen, rooted in their mutual admiration and shared experiences, has added a fun and meaningful dynamic to their friendship. The parade celebration marked a special moment for both Mariska and the Knicks community, showcasing the bond between the actress and the championship-winning team.