What the Knicks Taught Me About Storytelling (and Commercials)

As a New Yorker born and raised in Chelsea, I’ve seen my fair share of passionate rivalries—none fiercer than Yankees vs. Mets. But if there’s one thing that unites us, it’s our love for the Knicks. That’s why, after last night’s gut-wrenching final 2.5 minutes, I’ve been struggling to shake off the gloom (not helped by the endless NYC rain). Still, I remind myself: it’s just one loss in a seven-game series. There’s hope, and brighter days ahead.

This rollercoaster of emotions—anticipation, heartbreak, resilience, and hope—is exactly what makes sports (and life in New York) so compelling. It’s also a perfect metaphor for creative work, especially when it comes to directing commercials.

Just like Knicks fans need a game plan to keep hope alive, directors need a clear vision to guide their team. That’s where storyboards come in:

Why Directors Should Use Storyboards:

Clarity in Chaos: New York sports fans know how quickly things can get chaotic. Storyboards are your playbook—they provide a visual roadmap, ensuring everyone from the DP to the art director is on the same page.

Emotional Impact: Remember how the last minutes of the Knicks game had you on the edge of your seat? Storyboards help directors plan those emotional beats, making sure every moment in the commercial lands with maximum impact.

Efficiency: In a city that never sleeps, time is money. Storyboards streamline production, minimizing confusion and costly reshoots—so you can focus on capturing that perfect shot, rain or shine.

Inspiration: Just as we turn to our teams for inspiration, storyboards spark creativity. They let you experiment with angles, pacing, and storytelling before the cameras roll.

So as you head into Memorial Day weekend—whether you’re recharging, braving the rain, or catching up on the latest Knicks drama—consider how a little planning and visualization can turn your next commercial into a slam dunk.

Here’s to brighter days, better games, and storyboards that bring your creative vision to life. And if you need a little inspiration, check out our recent Fan Duel – Chuck GPT spot, with Charles Barkley, directed by Hank Perlman, Hungry Man—proof that even on the gloomiest days, a great story (and a great plan) can shine through.