The New Orleans Pelicans don't have a lot to smile about these days. But on Thursday night, plenty of smiles went around as they defeated the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden, 102-91.

But aside from the win, which helped the Pelicans improve to 17-28, the evening was extra special for Brandon Ingram, Josh Hart, and especially Jose Alvarado. The undrafted rookie, who grew up in the Big Apple, had a game to remember with 13 points, four assists, and four steals.

He was clearly inspired, wanting to show his appreciation to Ingram and Hart who paid for the tickets of Alvarado's family and friends. Ingram also gave his jersey to one of Alvarado's brothers (via New Orleans Pelicans).

The 23-year-old guard, who starred for Georgia Tech, couldn't hide his joy when he was interviewed by the Pelicans broadcast, as he basked at the moment under the bright lights of the Mecca of Basketball (via Pelicans reporter Jim Eichenhofer).

Alvarado has only appeared in 18 games for the Pelicans, averaging 9.2 minutes per outing. But he couldn't ask for a better venue to have his breakout game (via ESPN).

“When I saw the fans start coming and people that I know and how much they were showing me love, I felt like it was one of those nights.”

The Pelicans may not be having a successful season, but in the larger scheme of things, basketball is more than getting wins. It's about building relationships and extending help—because kindness is undefeated.