Knicks' championship ring distribution raises questions after phishing test
New York Knicks players received their championship rings, but assistant coaches got empty boxes and many staff may not receive rings, amid a cybersecurity phishing test for employees.
The New York Knicks presented championship rings to players on Tuesday night, but assistant coaches were handed empty boxes during the ceremony, according to a report by The Athletic. The discrepancy has sparked speculation about which staff members will ultimately receive rings, as the organization has not clarified its policy for non-player personnel.
Madison Square Garden employees also received an email in September that appeared to let them reserve a preferred ring style, but the message was later identified as a phishing test. Employees who clicked the link were required to attend a mandatory cybersecurity class, a move described as addressing owner James Dolan's heightened cybersecurity concerns.
"We are not disclosing anything about the rings," a MSG Sports spokesperson told The Athletic.
The situation comes as the Knicks begin their title-defense season with a loss to the Philadelphia 76ers, and it highlights ongoing internal challenges for the franchise beyond on-court performance.