George Kalinsky, the legendary photographer who captured everything happening at Madison Square Garden for more than five decades, has died.
He was 88.
Kalinksy shot historic sporting events, including hobbled Willis Reed’s emergence from the tunnel for the Knicks in the 1970 NBA Finals, Muhammad Ali’s “Fight of the Century” against Joe Frazier and the Rangers winning the Stanley Cup in 1994.
He also covered countless significant concerts and non-sports moments inside the Garden, such as Pope John Paul II’s visit in 1979.
“I just heard and my condolences go out to his family,” Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau said before the Knicks’ 116-99 loss to the Timberwolves on Friday night at the Garden. “Just a wonderful man. So great at what he did. He captured so many big moments at the Garden.
“On top of that, just who he was as a person, he always made everybody feel good, and you can’t say anything more about a person. He was just a great, great guy and a fantastic photographer. And the way he captured everything that happened here was really special.”
The Long Island native, who began working as the official photographer at MSG in 1966, reportedly died of natural causes and complications from Parkinson’s Disease, according to Newsday.
“For more than 50 years, George was synonymous with Madison Square Garden,” MSG said in a statement. “There wasn’t a single important moment at The World’s Most Famous Arena that George didn’t capture.
“From Willis Reed’s inspiring walk onto the court for Game 7 of 1970 NBA Finals to ‘The Fight of the Century’ between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier, George and his lens were there.”
Friday also marked Thibodeau’s 67th birthday, which he shared with the late Ali.
“I can’t even remember that long ago. But I realize how fortunate I’ve been,” Thibodeau said. “Obviously you need good fortune.”
“I’ve been around a lot of great coaches, great players, great organizations. When you’re able to do something you love, you have a great appreciation for it.”
Jericho Sims went scoreless (0-for-2) with five rebounds in 19 minutes his fifth start at center this season in place of Karl-Anthony Towns (thumb).
Precious Achiuwa had six points and nine rebounds in 36 minutes while playing a few minutes alongside Sims.
