New York Knicks coach Mike Brown recently praised P.F Flyers, and it’s no surprise why.
Helping propel teams to victory since the 1950s, The All-American is athletes’ original choice for premium comfort and performance. It’s old school.
Here’s everything you need to know about how the Knicks and P.F. Flyers are making their comeback together.
A Hero On The Court
During the first game of their 2026 playoff series against the Cleveland Cavaliers, American basketball coach Mike Brown was glad to have his P.F. Flyers sneakers on.
All great coaches know that in the heat of the competition, every moment counts. In a chaotic final stretch of the Madison Square Garden matchup, the two NBA teams found themselves tied. Sam Merrill’s 3-pointer rimmed out, and Mikal Bridges readied for the rebound.
With little more than a second remaining in the Eastern Conference game, Brown sprinted onto the court. Fighting for the attention of the referee, he jumped up and down for a timeout. Though no call was made, the Knicks still secured a 115-104 overtime win over the Cavaliers in the end.
The frantic attempt to save the day caused the basketball icon to injure his calf. Fortunately, he recovered and was ready to go for the next game. When asked about the incident, Brown revealed that he was thankful to have on his P.F. Flyers.
“I would’ve blown my Achilles out if I didn’t have on my P.F. Flyers,” the coach remarked.
“I had on my P.F. Flyers, and so they helped give me the support I needed. It’s old school.”
—Coach Mike Brown
The Knicks’ Good Luck Charm
As the viral moment continues to make waves online, people can’t help but wonder if P.F. Flyers are the Knicks’ good luck charm. It’s the team’s first time reaching the NBA finals in 27 years.
Among them is yet another American icon who has been captivated by our canvas footwear. Bronx native and legendary hip-hop artist Fat Joe can’t get enough of the head coach’s sneaker choice.
Confronting him at a recent press interview, the platinum-certified rapper asked Brown about his shoes. Originally unconvinced, Fat Joe has come around to the brand, imploring Brown to keep wearing them. “Now I’m thinking it’s good luck, so I need you to keep them on, Coach,” he urged.
The hip-hop star also asked Coach Brown if he could receive his own special shoes if the team keeps up its good luck streak: “When we win, can I get a pair signed by you?”
Setting New Records
Schooling the rap artist on sneaker culture, Brown also gave a quick lesson about The All-American’s origins.
“Bob Cousy, he was the first athlete to be endorsed by a shoe…” he explained. “It was P.F. Flyers. They signed him back in the day. So, P.F Flyers were the first shoe coming in when I was signing athletes.”
Brown, who has also coached for the Sacramento Kings, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Los Angeles Lakers, knows his basketball history. Bob Cousy didn’t just set records for athletes on the court.
Back in 1958, we teamed up with the 13-time NBA all-star in the first-ever endorsement between an athlete and a footwear brand. Wearing his crisp white sneakers as he led the Celtics to the top of six championships, our collaboration with Cousy paved the path for the connection between sports and sneakers we know and love today.
Shop Old School Sneakers
The Knicks’ recent success has proven that legends never die. Blending retro roots with the performance needed for today’s steps, our heritage sneakers are also making a comeback.
Keeping classic style alive, we’ve reimagined our archival sneaker lineup for the modern day. Mid-century shoes were praised for their minimal design, reliable wear, and quality craftsmanship. As the original canvas sneaker icons, we continue that tradition forward.
Each pair of P.F Flyers is made to move with you. Our signature Posture Foundation insoles, breathable canvas, and durable rubber soles help keep feet comfortable. You never know when you’ll need to make a last-second sprint. Make sure it’s done with the support of a P.F. Flyers sneaker.
To shop for the same look as Coach Brown and join in on the superstition as the Knicks head to the NBA finals, check out our All-American sneakers.
