New York had every reason to be in a frenzy. The city could be considered Su Xi's second home—he graduated from Syracuse University, and the tales of his miracles in the NCAA were still legendary throughout New York State. When Isaiah Thomas confidently announced that Su Xi would be joining the Knicks, Syracuse alumni came out in droves to celebrate. They would finally get to see Su Xi play at Madison Square Garden Arena again.
When reporters went to interview the Syracuse University Orange Team, both the coaching staff and the players pledged to help New York with the recruitment. Su Xi's status had skyrocketed. He was now one of the league's hottest young superstars—a world away from the bench player he used to be.
However, everyone believed Su Xi was someone who cherished his old ties.
Every year, the media reported on Su Xi's trips back to New Jersey to take care of Reggie Williams and the Scotts.
