MSG says phishing test using fake ring offer was an "unfortunate mistake"

MSG spokesperson admitted that a phishing simulation sent to Knicks business‑operations staff and arena employees mistakenly used a fake championship‑ring offer as a lure, calling the mistake "unfortunate."## What Happened The Athletic reported that last month some employees got an email titled "your Employee Championship Ring is here" promising a choice of two ring options at no cost. Clicking the link redirected them to a notice that they had failed a phishing test and would have to attend a mandatory cybersecurity class. MSG said the email was meant as a security‑training simulation after a recent hack that used a similar phishing trick to steal an employee login and password.

Reaction

Assistant coaches received empty boxes at Tuesday’s title ceremony because their rings had not yet been fitted, sparking annoyance and anger among several coaches. A source confirmed several Knicks coaches missed out on rings. The Athletic noted a comparable delay happened with Oklahoma City Thunder rings after their 2025 title. MSG also announced it is distributing more than 275 championship rings and other jewelry to players, coaches and staff, valued at over $3.7 million.

Context

The Knicks ended a 53‑year title drought by beating the San Antonio Spurs in last season’s NBA Finals and added two new banners in the rafters for that championship and the 2025‑26 NBA Cup win.