Even a historic playoff blowout wasn’t enough to score a golden ticket for the New York Knicks on Monday night. On May 4, 2026, just hours after the Knicks decimated the Philadelphia 76ers 137–98 in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals, several players were reportedly turned away from the most exclusive event in Manhattan: Madonna and Sabrina Carpenter’s Met Gala after-party.
The ultra-exclusive “after-after party,” held on the fifth floor of the private members’ club Zero Bond, was the talk of the night. Despite the venue’s ability to hold nearly 400 people, sources indicate that the guest list was strictly capped at 200 to maintain an “intentionally intimate” vibe.
According to reports, several Knicks stars arrived at the venue around 1:00 AM, fresh off their 39-point victory at Madison Square Garden. However, because they were not on the pre-approved guest list—or were attempting to bring unauthorized plus-ones security denied them entry.
The rejection came as a surprise to fans, given that the Knicks had just made NBA history as the first team ever to win three consecutive playoff games by 25 points or more. While players like Josh Hart (who recorded 8 points and 8 rebounds in the win) and Jalen Brunson were the toast of the town at MSG, the door at Zero Bond proved to be a tougher defense than Philly’s backcourt.
Inside the A-List Inner Circle:
While the Knicks were left at the curb, the stars who did make the cut included:
• Katy Perry & Orlando Bloom (who reportedly kept things friendly as famous exes)
• Margot Robbie, Hailey Bieber, and Kendall Jenner
• Jeff Bezos & Lauren Sánchez (serving as honorary chairs for the Gala)
• Serena Williams and Baz Luhrmann
Not to be deterred by a “no” at the door, the rejected players reportedly headed over to The Box, another legendary NYC late-night spot known for its wild performances and slightly more flexible (though still difficult) entry for local legends.
While the Knicks are currently untouchable on the court, this Met Gala mishap serves as a hilarious reminder that in the world of fashion’s biggest night, even NBA superstars have to play by Anna Wintour’s and Madonna’s rules.
