This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/29/2019
As one of the NBA’s original franchises, the New York Knicks have a historically proud fan base despite enduring more pain than glory throughout their 73 years of existence. Only twice since 1946 have the Knicks won it all, the first being 1969-70 after a truly magical season. The man who guided Willis Reed, Walt Frazier, Bill Bradley and company to the promised land was head coach Red Holzman. The team finished 60-22 thanks to a then-record 18-game win streak, before knocking off the Bullets and Bucks to reach the NBA Finals. A thrilling series ensured against the Lakers as the Knicks prevailed in Game 7, highlighted by Reed’s inspiring return to action, sending the MSG faithful into a frenzy. Red was named Coach of the Year for his efforts. He led his squad to another title in ’73, but nothing could top that first taste of victory.
Presented here is the 1970 NBA Championship ring Holzman received after the historic triumph. Calling this ring rare does not do it justice. No other example from a Knicks player or staff member has been offered before at auction. The exquisite 14-karat gold ring features a real diamond atop a basketball on the face, surrounded by "New York Knicks” and “World Champions” in raised relief. The right shank has "RED HOLZMAN" across a banner above an old “NBA” logo with five contested arms. The left shank has “KNICKS” at the top and “1970” at the bottom, with a casted image of a basketball engraved “18 STRAIGHT” in the middle. The inside of the band is stamped "Balfour 14K". The size 10¾ ring (42 g) shows moderate wear and comes housed in its blue Balfour box. Calling this ring rare does not do it justice. No other example from a Knicks player or staff member has been offered before at auction. Includes LOA from the Holzman family.