NEW YORK (7News) — As New York celebrates its first NBA championship in 53 years with a parade through Manhattan, one of the key pieces of the title run has deep roots in the D.C. area.

Josh Hart, a Silver Spring, Md. native and former Sidwell Friends School standout, helped lead the Knicks to their long-awaited championship, fulfilling a goal he has chased throughout his basketball career.

“It’s a part of my testimony,” Hart said. “The one thing, no matter what, I’ve always said that I want to be a winner. I want to win a championship at the highest level.”

Before becoming an NBA champion, Hart developed his game at Sidwell Friends in Northwest Washington under head coach Eric Singletary.

“When you have the pleasure and the privilege to coach and teach young players, you never dream that one of your players will make it to the pinnacle of their career,” Singletary said. “I’m just so excited for him, his teammates and his family. Quaker Nation here at Sidwell is beaming with pride.”

Hart’s impact during the Finals extended far beyond the box score. He averaged nearly eight points and 10 rebounds per game, providing the hustle, defense and leadership that helped push New York past San Antonio.

Singletary believes Hart’s selfless approach has made him an ideal fit for the Knicks.

“Josh is one of those center pieces on the board that is selfless, like you’ve heard him talk about, he’s a servant leader, he wants to serve his teammates, he does that with just giving relentless effort,” Singletary said. “He’s probably has one of the best motors in the world when it comes to playing the game at such a high pace, high level, high intensity, but also with an extreme level of intelligence.”

Hart’s path to the top wasn’t always smooth. He endured multiple trades and played under several head coaches before finding stability in New York.

“I’ve been doubted so many times,” Hart said. “I’ve been traded and had so much instability. But I found a home in New York, and they embraced me.”

For Hart, the championship validates years of perseverance.

“I’m not perfect by any means. I make a lot of mistakes, but I try to put my heart out there,” Hart said. “I try to do whatever I can do to help the team win. I don’t care about points. I’m willing to sacrifice whatever it takes for this city, for this jersey, for this franchise.”