The Knicks’ fake ring email is ticking off the internet

The New York Knicks are facing a public relations disaster following an email that employees mistook for a legitimate announcement about receiving championship rings. The email, which was actually an IT phishing test, was sent by Madison Square Garden (MSG) staff to its employees expecting a ring after the team's recent NBA Finals victory.

The email claimed that employees' Employee Championship Rings were ready for them to choose from two styles: Championship Gold or Garden Classic. However, clicking the link led employees to a mandatory cybersecurity class, rather than a jeweler's website. This deceptive tactic has sparked intense backlash on social media, with many mocking the NBA team for their embarrassing mistake.

In response, an MSG spokesperson admitted that the use of rings as a lure for the IT test was a "mistake" and revealed that top assistant coaches will receive their rings shortly. The team is expected to present over 275 championship rings and jewelry worth more than $3.7 million to players, coaches, employees, and other members of the Knicks family.