Hours after the New York Knicks captured their first NBA championship in more than 50 years, fans flocked to stores across Manhattan on Sunday to get their hands on commemorative gear before the team's championship parade.

Lines stretched around the block outside the NBA Store on Fifth Avenue as fans waited for a chance to purchase championship shirts, hats and jerseys celebrating the Knicks' historic title run.

Stephanie Lucas was among those searching for merchandise Sunday morning.

"We're looking for the hats. We already captured the shirts at the Fanatics truck. So we're coming for the hats," Lucas said.

The NBA Store opened early and remained open into the evening to accommodate the crowds. According to security staff, some fans began lining up as early as 5:30 a.m. in hopes of securing gear before Thursday's championship parade.

"The parade is on Thursday. I gotta be fitted out. Like, I gotta represent New York," said Christian, a fan waiting in line outside the store.

The demand has been so strong that online orders through the NBA Store are showing delivery dates after the parade.

For many fans, the merchandise serves as a keepsake marking a long-awaited championship.

Randy, a diehard Knicks fan who watched the game with his father, said he placed a preorder online, but showed up at the store to make sure he got the gear.

"Got to make sure you get doubles, just in case. You never know. It's a historic moment," he said. "It's worth every penny, every cent, absolutely."

While many in line described themselves as lifelong supporters, others said the team's championship run inspired them to join the fan base.

Karina Castellanos said she hoped to purchase a jersey for Knicks star Karl-Anthony Towns, whose story resonates with her on a personal level.

"His mom died of COVID, my mom died of COVID. So I feel bonded to him," Castellanos said. "He's overcome adversity. So I'm really happy to support him and hopefully get one of his jerseys."

For Castellanos, the excitement surrounding the Knicks extends beyond basketball.

"I've been in New York for almost 10 years and I think I've never felt energy like this," she said. "Not even the World Cup compares to the energy that I felt over the past week or so."