Julius Randle has led the Knicks to a rather surprising 15-16 record that currently has them placed seventh in the Eastern Conference. The seventh-year power forward is putting together his most productive NBA season, averaging 23.2 points, 11.0 rebounds, and 5.5 assists. On Tuesday night, Randle was rewarded for his tremendous season by being selected to the NBA All-Star Game for the first time.

Tuesday also marked the return of fans — roughly 2,000 of them — to Madison Square Garden for the Knicks’ game against the Golden State Warriors. Randle addressed the fans pregame, and was greeted with M-V-P chants.

And after the game started, Randle got a surprise during a break in action: congratulations on the All-Star selection from his mom.

That’s awesome. A special and very deserving night for Randle.

About Matt Clapp

Matt is an editor at The Comeback. He attended Colorado State University, wishes he was Saved by the Bell's Zack Morris, and idolizes Larry David. And loves pizza and dogs because obviously.

He can be followed on Twitter at @Matt2Clapp (also @TheBlogfines for Cubs/MLB tweets and @DaBearNecess for Bears/NFL tweets), and can be reached by email at mclapp@thecomeback.com.