Hollywood icons Jack Nicholson, Spike Lee, Billy Crystal, and businessman Alan Horwitz have recently been inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame’s James F. Goldstein SuperFan Gallery.
Goldstein is a familiar face at NBA games, attending around 100 each season. The SuperFan Gallery, named in his honor, celebrates the fervor of die-hard fans for basketball, their reputation within the sport, and their deep appreciation for its history. Since its inception in 2018, notable inductees have included Penny Marshall and Nav Bhatia among others.
Despite their fame, these passionate fans are not so different from those who sit in the cheaper seats.
Billy Crystal, a long-time supporter of the Los Angeles Clippers, traces his love for the team back to when they were still based in San Diego. For devoted fans like him, the location of their seat is secondary; what truly matters is being there to support their beloved team in crucial moments.
Spike Lee recalls a pivotal day in his life—May 8, 1970—when, at just 13 years old, he was offered a chance to attend Game 7 of the NBA Finals, missing his father’s concert instead. Although his seat was not the closest to the action, he had a great view as he witnessed Willis Reed inspire the Knicks to victory despite injury. Lee stated, “I’ve been to the World Series, the World Cup, the Super Bowl, and the Olympics, but that was the loudest moment I’ve ever experienced.”
While Crystal eagerly awaits the Clippers’ first championship, Lee reflects on the challenges of being a Knicks fan, especially when rival teams like the Lakers have had legends such as Magic Johnson, Shaquille O’Neal, and Kobe Bryant over the years.
Jack Nicholson, who became a Lakers fan in the 1970s, has always adjusted his filming schedule and personal meetings to attend important Lakers games. Now at 87 years old, he has stepped back from attending games, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering support for the team.
