As 2025 draws to a close, it’s impossible not to reflect on the extraordinary athletes who have defined New York’s sports landscape over the past quarter-century. But here’s where it gets controversial: who truly deserves the title of the best player for each of the city’s iconic teams since 2000? From the Yankees to the Knicks, the choices are as bold as they are debated. Let’s dive into the Daily News’ picks for the Quarter-Century Team, where legends collide and legacies are cemented.
Yankees: Aaron Judge
In a franchise steeped in history, Aaron Judge stands as a titan among giants. And this is the part most people miss: while Derek Jeter’s 2,658 hits and Mariano Rivera’s 523 saves are legendary, Judge’s dominance since his 2016 debut is unparalleled. Leading the majors in home runs (368), OPS (1.028), and WAR (61.6), he shattered the American League single-season home run record with 62 in 2022. Judge’s 350 homers in 1,088 games are the fastest in MLB history, and his three seasons with an OPS above 1.111 place him in elite company. With four 50-homer seasons and three MVP Awards, Judge’s peak—batting .311 with 210 homers and a 1.117 OPS over four seasons—is arguably the greatest for a right-handed hitter ever. Though he hasn’t won a World Series yet, his Cooperstown-bound career is undeniable. But here’s the question: does Judge’s lack of a championship diminish his legacy compared to Jeter and Rivera?
Mets: Jacob deGrom
Jacob deGrom’s nine-year reign with the Mets was nothing short of spectacular. His 2.52 ERA from 2014-22 trails only Clayton Kershaw’s 2.38, and his 1.00 WHIP is franchise-best, even surpassing Tom Seaver. DeGrom’s 2018-19 campaign, with a 2.05 ERA over 421 innings, is otherworldly. Back-to-back Cy Young Awards, despite limited run support, highlight his dominance. But here’s where it gets controversial: is deGrom’s brilliance enough to overshadow the Mets’ lack of postseason success during his tenure?
Giants: Michael Strahan
Choosing between Michael Strahan and Eli Manning is no small feat, but Strahan’s pass-rushing prowess tips the scale. With 89 sacks from 2000-07, including the single-season record of 22.5 in 2001, he redefined defensive dominance. His Super Bowl XLII victory, capped by sacking Tom Brady, cemented his legacy. The debate rages on: does Strahan’s individual brilliance outweigh Manning’s two Super Bowl MVPs?
Jets: Darrelle Revis
Darrelle Revis’ 25 interceptions in 108 games might seem modest, but they underscore his dominance. Nicknamed “Revis Island,” he forced quarterbacks to avoid him, earning three First-Team All-Pro selections and five Pro Bowl nods. His 100-yard interception return in 2011 remains a Jets record. The question remains: is Revis’ lockdown ability enough to overshadow the Jets’ limited team success during his era?
Knicks: Jalen Brunson
In just four seasons, Jalen Brunson has transformed the Knicks. His 26.5 points and 6.7 assists per game are historic, but his impact goes deeper. Brunson led the Knicks to three consecutive playoff series wins and their first Eastern Conference Finals since 2000. But here’s the twist: is Brunson’s rapid rise enough to surpass Knicks legends who played longer?
Nets: Jason Kidd
Jason Kidd’s seven seasons with the then-New Jersey Nets defined the franchise’s glory days. Leading them to back-to-back NBA Finals, he holds team records in assists, steals, and triple-doubles. The controversy lingers: does Kidd’s impact in New Jersey overshadow his shorter tenure in Brooklyn?
Rangers: Henrik Lundqvist
Henrik Lundqvist’s 15-year tenure with the Rangers is unmatched. With 459 wins, 11 30-win seasons, and a Vezina Trophy, he’s a goaltender for the ages. The debate persists: does Lundqvist’s lack of a Stanley Cup diminish his otherwise flawless resume?
Liberty: Breanna Stewart
Breanna Stewart’s impact on the Liberty is unparalleled. Leading the team in points per game, player efficiency, and offensive rating, she won the WNBA MVP in 2023 and delivered the Liberty’s first championship in 2024. The question lingers: does Stewart’s short tenure outweigh the longevity of franchise staples like Teresa Weatherspoon?
Now it’s your turn: Which of these selections do you agree with? Which players do you think were overlooked? Let’s spark the debate in the comments!
