Despite being reared in Maryland, Josh Hart, the gifted NBA player, has many connections to New York City. Elston Howard, the first African-American player in New York Yankees history, was Hart’s great-uncle. On Tuesday, the New York Knicks guard received a unique gift from the storied MLB team.

Hart visited Yankee Stadium when the Baltimore Orioles were in town, and as part of a night honoring his great uncle, he was given the privilege of throwing out the ceremonial first pitch. Hart received a No. 32 jersey from the Yankees, which Howard wore while he was a player for the team.

Hart also had time to visit Monument Park, the stadium that houses the Yankees’ renowned outdoor museum, and take some pictures.

On April 15, 1947, Jackie Robinson became the first Black player in MLB history when he entered the field for the Brooklyn Dodgers at Ebbets Field, shattering the color barrier. Elston Howard made his major league debut with the Yankees on April 14, 1955, over eight years after he had first appeared in the organization.

Although he started his career in the minor levels, Howard was signed by the Yankees in 1950. Elston Howard flourished under manager Casey Stengel after making his way up the ladder to the major leagues. The talented catcher was crowned the AL MVP in 1963 and went on to win six World Series with the Bronx Bombers.

Similar to his great uncle, Josh Hart has gained popularity in the Big Apple due to his intense work ethic and passionate approach to the game.

Josh Hart responded hilariously when Isaiah Hartenstein, a former teammate, joined the OKC Thunder.The New York Knicks had their best regular season record since the 2012–13 campaign thanks in part to Josh Hart’s leadership. The Knicks concluded with 50 victories and advanced to the Eastern Conference semifinals for the second consecutive season, driven by outstanding seasons from Hart, Jalen Brunson, and OG Anunoby.

When the players return the next season, one important player will be absent because Isaiah Hartenstein chose to move. This offseason, Hart responded humorously on his X account to the gifted center’s three-year, $87 million contract with the OKC Thunder.

“Zay, you are dead to me. In any case, I never liked you. Still, nice job on the bag!” Hart made a joke.The New York Knicks still have one of the best rosters in the East, even with Hartenstein’s departure. In an attempt to end the franchise’s 51-year title drought, New York will have the core of the club back for the 2024–25 campaign.