Pablo Torre has uncovered yet another layer of the New York Knicks’ aggressive free-agent pursuits from the late 2010s, revealing unused recruiting videos created for both Kawhi Leonard and Kyrie Irving, per Bleacher Report.
On a recent episode of Pablo Torre Finds Out, Torre detailed how the Knicks leaned heavily into celebrity, comedy, and New York culture during the summer of 2019 as they attempted to land two of the biggest names on the market. The franchise had significant cap space and aimed high, producing elaborate pitches that ultimately never reached their intended audience.
The Kawhi Leonard video served as the centerpiece of Torre’s reporting. According to Torre, the Knicks assembled a full SNL-style production, with former cast member Jay Pharoah portraying Leonard. The video also featured well-known Knicks fans and comedians, including Ben Stiller, Kenan Thompson, and Michael Che. The tone blended humor with ambition, reflecting how the organization tried to sell New York as both a basketball destination and a cultural capital.
Ben Stiller reacts to forgotten Kawhi Leonard pitch
Torre later followed up with Stiller to ask what he remembered about taping the video. Stiller admitted the details had faded, saying he did not recall much beyond thinking it may have been filmed around Union Square. His response, however, shifted quickly from nostalgia to perspective.
Stiller referenced years of Knicks speculation surrounding LeBron James and Giannis Antetokounmpo, noting how different the current team feels compared to those eras of pursuit. He expressed strong belief in the chemistry of the present roster, praising the group’s talent, commitment, and willingness to embrace defined roles. Stiller also pointed specifically to Karl-Anthony Towns, saying many people overlook the work he has done to adapt within the system and play without ego alongside Jalen Brunson as captain.
While Stiller reiterated his admiration for Leonard as a player, he emphasized that the Knicks’ current position feels earned rather than manufactured. He added that he hopes the franchise keeps its core together and avoids trade deadline moves that could disrupt what has been built.
Kyrie Irving video leaned into New York mythology
Torre also revealed details of a separate recruiting video created for Kyrie Irving during the same offseason. That pitch took a different creative approach, framing Irving’s potential arrival as a mixtape-style tribute to New York basketball. The video opened with legendary figures explaining why Irving fit the city, then fast-forwarded to a fictional future where New Yorkers named their children after him.
At the time, Irving had publicly expressed interest in the Knicks while still with the Boston Celtics, calling them a strong option in late 2018. His relationship with Boston deteriorated over the 2018–19 season, which opened the door for New York’s involvement. Ultimately, Irving chose to join Kevin Durant with the Brooklyn Nets, ending the Knicks’ pursuit.
Pablo Torre noted that these videos join a growing list of ambitious Knicks pitches from that era. Previous reporting uncovered recruitment efforts aimed at Durant that involved commissioning an original Wu-Tang Clan song and music video, as well as a video made for LeBron James during the summer of 2010.
The revelations highlight a franchise that once relied on spectacle to sell hope. Years later, the Knicks no longer need celebrity skits or fictional futures to make their case. Their present reality, shaped by on-court success and stability, speaks louder than any unused video ever could.
Like Heavy Sports’s content? Be sure to follow us.
This article was originally published on Heavy Sports
The post Pablo Torre Reveals Knicks’ Unused Kawhi Leonard, Kyrie Irving Recruiting Videos appeared first on Heavy Sports.