WATCH: Mikal Bridges gets chopped cheese 'The Ocky Way' in viral NYC bodega
Mikal Bridges said that he remains a big fan of the city of Brooklyn after the Nets traded him to the New York Knicks. Bridges cited fan support and his work in the community as two of his biggest attachments to the city. After nearly playing for two years with the Nets, “The Warden” certainly knows his way around one of New York’s boroughs.
On Sunday, a clip of him going to Red Hook to taste “General Ock’s” now world-famous “Ocky-Way” burgers went viral. Bridges was welcomed by manager and store owner Rahim Mohamed, whose nickname “akhi,” meaning “brother,” has been given an Americanized spin. Mohamed, also the chef, posted on TikTok his encounter with the NBA star.
Mikal Bridges ordered the chopped cheese, which is minced burger meat with a substantial amount of cheese. The recipe included bacon, pepper, Bridges’ favorite chips to enhance the flavor and spinach.
“General Ock” started uploading his videos to TikTok in 2021. In a short time, he garnered over 2 million followers. Three years later, his following is now over 100 million, making the “Ocky-Way” a sought-after meal for those who happen to be in Brooklyn. As somebody who will be in New York for at least a few years, Bridges ensured he got a taste of the popular food.
Knicks fans hope Mikal Bridges will be “cooking” in New York
Mikal Bridges averaged 21.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, 3.4 assists and 1.0 steals in 109 games for the Brooklyn Nets. The numbers were quite impressive considering he was the team’s main man following the departures of Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving. Bridges shot 44.7%, including 37.3% from deep with the Nets.
The New York Knicks will be ecstatic if he can continue “cooking” despite a change in scenery. Under Tom Thibodeau, “The Warden” will no longer be the first option on offense, a role that will go to Jalen Brunson. Bridges, though, will likely be part of a starting five featuring Brunson, Julius Randle, Mitchell Robinson and OG Anunoby.
Mikal Bridges might not put up the same numbers as his role will differ. But, considering he is the NBA’s resident iron man, his availability will be a big factor for the Knicks. Last year, the team reached the Eastern Conference semi-finals despite playing with an injury-plagued roster.
Thibodeau will count on Bridges’ durability, versatility, energy and hustle to help the New York Knicks challenge the defending champion Boston Celtics.