The New York Knicks' legacy is lighting up March Madness in a whole new way. AT&T has tapped into the star power of Knicks past and present for their latest ad campaign, "Ranger Ted," which debuted during the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament’s "Selection Show" on CBS. Expect to see this spot frequently as the college hoops action heats up this spring.
Current Knicks standout Jalen Brunson returns to the spotlight, joined by teammates Jose Alvarado and Karl-Anthony Towns, along with Knicks legends Patrick Ewing and John Starks. The ad takes a playful twist on "traveling" as Brunson, Starks, and Towns embark on a mountain hike to catch a March Madness viewing party hosted by Ewing. Towns jokes about their timing, only to find "OG" isn't their teammate OG Anunoby, but the ever-charismatic Starks, who humorously challenges the younger guys to try hiking at his age.
Just when it seems like they might miss the tip-off, Brunson saves the day by streaming the game on his AT&T phone. Starks then video calls Ewing, who's enjoying snacks with Alvarado. In a comedic moment, Towns offers some natural berries, only to be warned they’re "very poisonous."
Brunson is no stranger to AT&T’s March Madness campaigns. In 2024, he highlighted the brand’s streaming capabilities alongside his wife, Ali, and fellow New York basketball star Sabrina Ionescu.
Last year, Brunson teamed up with his Villanova pals, Mikal Bridges and Josh Hart, in a humorous spot that underscored the reliability of AT&T’s network, a stark contrast to the unpredictability of life beyond cell service. This included a cameo from former Wildcat Donte DiVincenzo, who was part of the trade that brought Towns to the Knicks.
In another memorable ad, "Jalen’s Jacket," Brunson sported a jacket covered in phones streaming various games, much to his wife's playful dismay. The ad even featured a cameo from Ionescu, adding to the fun.
As for the tournament itself, Brunson and Towns are surely thrilled with their alma maters’ placements. Villanova is making its first men’s tournament appearance since 2022, facing Utah State. Meanwhile, Towns’ Kentucky Wildcats are set to take on Santa Clara, promising an exciting Friday for fans.