Noah Lyles Makes Stunning Admission That He 'Didn't Know' New York Knicks Star

This past spring, the New York Knicks made significant progress by reaching the Eastern Conference Semifinals.

They had the upper hand against the Indiana Pacers but ultimately allowed a comeback, resulting in a series loss that sent Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart, and the rest of the team back to New York, left to ponder what might have been.

Recently, Team USA's gold medalist sprinter Noah Lyles, known for his skepticism about NBA players being termed "World Champions," candidly expressed his views on Hart and the Knicks upon request.

“Do you know who Josh Hart is?” Lyles was asked. “No,” Lyles replied.

“He plays for the Knicks,” Lyles was then told, to which he responded, “I appreciate it.”

Lyles' remarks emerged midst speculation of a potential trade involving the Knicks and a Utah Jazz center. These comments underscore the fact that the Knicks still have some distance to cover before they become widely recognized in the NBA.

While Lyles might be unaware of who Hart is, it's clear that he and his Knicks colleagues are not perturbed by the renowned Olympic sprinter's recent remarks. Known as an NBA provocateur, Lyles seems to be candidly acknowledging his lack of recognition following a straightforward inquiry.

The current objective for Brunson, Hart, and the Knicks is to enhance their reputation by continuing their winning streak in the NBA, aiming for their first championship since 1973, a time when Willis Reed and Walt Frazier graced the hardwood of Madison Square Garden.

Meanwhile, fans are encouraged to savor the journey and continue to enlighten Lyles about the burgeoning promise of New York's distinguished NBA team.

Related: Noah Lyles Praises Girlfriend Junelle Bromfield for Seeing Beyond His On-Track Theatrics