Main Story: The Knicks reportedly used fake championship-ring offers to test Madison Square Garden employees’ cybersecurity awareness. Employees who clicked the email link were directed to mandatory training, while some longtime staff reportedly won’t receive rings. The ring ceremony also had its own awkward twists: assistant coaches were given empty boxes, and NBA Commissioner Adam Silver was present but not among the presenters.

By the Numbers
  • The Knicks lost their season opener to the 76ers, 106-100.
  • Employees were offered a choice of 2 ring designs in the phishing email.
Yes, But

Championship rings for employees are not governed by a standard rule, and teams often give staff simpler versions than players receive. The assistant coaches are expected to get their rings later; the team reportedly was still collecting sizes and placing orders.

State of Play
  • The ring email was reportedly a cybersecurity test prompted by owner James Dolan’s concerns.
  • Some employees who clicked the link were assigned mandatory cybersecurity training.
  • Walt Frazier presented the rings; Silver attended but was seated away from the ceremony’s presenters.
What's Next

The assistant coaches are expected to receive their rings once sizing and orders are complete. The fake offer may also serve as a reminder to employees to verify unexpected messages before clicking links.

Bottom Line

A championship celebration became a cautionary tale: the Knicks’ ring night reportedly tested staff as much as it honored the team.