New York Knicks guard Tyler Kolek is walking back his criticism of Taylor Swift after questioning whether the pop superstar was a genuine supporter of the team.
Kolek admitted he was wrong about Swift’s history with the Knicks and said he enjoys her music. His teammate Jordan Clarkson also shared a video of the guard singing Swift’s hit “Blank Space” in the locker room following the team’s victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers.
“He apologizes … the kid is OK,” Clarkson wrote on Instagram Stories on Saturday, November 7.
“He’s a Swiftie,” Clarkson added.
Kolek addressed his earlier comments after Saturday’s game, acknowledging that he hadn’t known how long Swift had supported the team.
“I wasn’t up to date on my Taylor Swift Knicks fandom, so that’s on me,” he said.
The guard also pointed out that Swift had previously worn a No. 13 Knicks jersey, referencing the singer’s favorite number.
Tyler Kolek Explains Why He Walked Back His Taylor Swift Comments
Kolek told reporters that his initial remarks had received widespread attention and that he regretted how he answered a question about celebrity Knicks fans.
“(The video) was everywhere. Everybody saw it,” Kolek said Saturday. “But it is what it is. For me, it’s just a question that was asked to me that maybe I answered in the wrong way. I take that on the chin. But I love her music. We were just playing it five minutes ago and I’m singing every word to every song. Nothing against her at all.”
The comments came after Kolek and fellow Knicks guard Miles McBride participated in an NBA 2K TikTok livestream.
During the conversation, the players were asked to identify celebrities they considered the “fakest” Knicks fans.
“Maybe Taylor,” Kolek responded, with McBride agreeing.
Kolek then explained why he questioned the authenticity of some celebrity supporters.
“At the Knicks games, I would say it’s very performative because they just want to be seen at the game. They’re not necessarily fans,” he said.
New York Knicks Previously Defended Swift’s History With the Team
The Knicks organization has acknowledged Swift’s support before.
A team spokesperson told Heavy.com that the singer has followed the franchise for years.
“Taylor Swift has been a Knicks fan for many years, has a long history with Madison Square Garden, and we are incredibly appreciative of her support of the organization,” the spokesperson said.
Swift has attended multiple Knicks games over the years, including appearances alongside fellow celebrities.
She attended Game 4 of the NBA Finals with the Haim sisters and actress Mariska Hargitay. She has also traveled with her husband, Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, to watch the Knicks face the Cavaliers on the road.
Swift and Kelce also have a personal connection to Madison Square Garden. The couple chose the New York City venue for their July 2026 wedding.
Knicks Guard Tyler Kolek Changes His Tune on Taylor Swift After Calling Her a ‘Fake’ Fan