MSG Confirms Phishing Test Using Knicks Championship Rings

MSG Entertainment has confirmed that an email sent to employees, which appeared to offer them a free New York Knicks championship ring, was a cybersecurity phishing test. The organization stated that the simulation was designed to bolster security following a recent hack.

"The company had previously sent out an email to its corporate team as a simulation of a phishing attack designed to strengthen our security against hackers," MSG said in a statement. "MSG was recently hacked and extorted using an employee login and password obtained through a similar phishing attack."

Employees who clicked the link in the deceptive email were reportedly required to attend a mandatory cybersecurity class. The statement from MSG acknowledged that using the championship rings as a lure was an "unfortunate mistake."

This incident occurred after the New York Knicks received their championship rings on Oct. 20, 2026, marking their first NBA championship in 53 years. The extravagant rings, reportedly made of 22-carat gold and adorned with approximately 800 diamonds each, are valued at over $100,000 per ring. The team also hung their championship banner, the first since 1973, on the same night.

While players and coaches received their rings during the ceremony, employees were informed that they would not be receiving championship jewelry. The phishing email, sent to employees last month, suggested they could claim a "complimentary employee championship ring" with two design options available. The email also stated, "No cost to you."

MSG plans to distribute over 275 championship rings and other jewelry to players, coaches, and employees, totaling more than $3.7 million in value, as a recognition of their contributions to the team's success. The Knicks defeated the San Antonio Spurs in five games during the NBA Finals.