Joe Tsai Says Knicks' NBA Title Is 'Embarrassing' for Nets, Irritates Team's Fanbase

While most of the Big Apple is still celebrating the New York Knicks' 2026 NBA championship win, Brooklyn Nets owner Joe Tsai is speaking up for those who aren't as excited.

In a recent interview, Tsai asserted that the Knicks' title run didn't sit well with Nets fans, and he found it "embarrassing" for his franchise.

"Every year, some team is going to win a championship," Tsai told NetsDaily.com. "So it happens that this year, that team is in the same city. It doesn't make us feel very good. It irates our fan base, and it is embarrassing."

The Nets went 20-62 last season and missed the playoffs for the third straight year. Brooklyn is in the throes of an ongoing rebuild and has one of the youngest rosters in the league, which is now led by 2026 No. 6 pick Mikel Brown Jr.

Tsai added that the Nets are committed to returning to playoff contention, and the Knicks' title win won't alter the team's approach.

"But in business or in competition, in sports, or in anything, you shouldn't let the embarrassment factor affect how you perform… [We] had a plan and we're rebuilding and I think right now we are on a positive trajectory," he said. "So it doesn't change my thinking at all."