MSG Spokesman Calls Knicks Championship Ring Phishing Test an 'Unfortunate Mistake'

Madison Square Garden apologized for sending a phishing simulation to Knicks staff that used the lure of a free NBA championship ring.

A Madison Square Garden spokesperson admitted fault Friday after employees in New York Knicks business operations and arena staff received a phishing email last month posing as an opportunity to claim a free NBA championship ring. The Athletic reported the email, titled "your Employee Championship Ring is here," offered staff two no-cost options, but those who clicked the link were informed they had failed a cybersecurity test and were required to attend a mandatory class. The simulation followed a recent hack and extortion incident at MSG involving an employee login obtained through a similar phishing attack.

During Tuesday's championship ceremony, several Knicks assistant coaches were handed empty boxes instead of jewelry because they had not yet been fitted for their rings, according to sources confirmed by ESPN. The Athletic reported that reactions from these coaches ranged from annoyance to anger. The organization is currently distributing over 275 rings and pieces of jewelry to players, coaches, and staff, with the total value of the items exceeding $3.7 million.

The Knicks secured their first title in 53 years by defeating the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA Finals last season. In addition to the championship banner, the team raised a second banner on Tuesday to commemorate their victory in the 2025-26 NBA Cup. A similar delay in ring distribution previously occurred for the Oklahoma City Thunder following their 2025 championship win.