As the Knicks make their first NBA Finals appearance in 27 years, former star Latrell Sprewell hopes the franchise can finally bring a championship back to New York.

Sprewell, who led the Knicks in scoring during the 1999 NBA Finals, spent part of Sunday signing autographs for fans at a Dick's Sporting Goods store in Yonkers ahead of New York's first Finals home game since that season.

"The energy is crazy. It's the Garden. It's the Mecca," Sprewell said. "You see how the fans are outside after we win. It's amazing."

Sprewell said Madison Square Garden's atmosphere during the Finals is unlike any other.

"You always feed off the energy," he said. "The Garden is so special, and the intensity is incredible because you know what's at stake."

The former All-Star said the current Knicks face plenty of pressure as they pursue the franchise's first NBA title since 1973.

"There's a lot of pressure," Sprewell said. "But hopefully the guys step up. This is what it's about. They've been very focused."

The Knicks lost Game 3 at Madison Square Garden after committing several costly turnovers, but bounced back Wednesday with a 107-106 victory over the Spurs to take a 3-1 lead in the series.

Asked what a championship would mean for New York, Sprewell pointed to the decades-long wait.

"It would mean everything," he said. " It's been 27 years since we've been to the Finals. I just hope we get it done."

Sprewell also reflected on his connection to one of the key figures on the current team.

One of his teammates during the 1999 Finals run was Rick Brunson, now an assistant coach with the Knicks. Rick Brunson's son, Jalen Brunson, has emerged as the team's captain and star point guard.

"Rick and I are really good friends, and Jalen was a kid running around after the games," Sprewell said. "To see him now, I couldn't be more proud and happy for their family."

As the Knicks continue their pursuit of a championship, Sprewell said he is enjoying watching this generation of players try to end the franchise's title drought.

"Being a fan and being able to embrace and enjoy everything that's going on… it’s an honor," he said. "I'm blessed to be a part of it, and I couldn't be [happier] for the guys."