Knicks Legend Dick Barnett
NBA Championship Ring Hitting Auction Block
… Months After Death
Published
Attention all Knicks fans, an extraordinary opportunity awaits you as Dick Barnett’s NBA championship ring is set to be auctioned off, just months after the basketball legend’s passing.
The ring dates back to the 1970 season when Barnett, alongside Walt Frazier, Willis Reed, Phil Jackson, and the rest of the Knicks, triumphed over the Lakers in a thrilling seven-game NBA Finals series.
The ring is adorned with engravings that pay homage to the memorable NYK season, featuring inscriptions of “New York Knicks” and “World Champions,” with Barnett’s name elegantly etched on its side.
Notably, the ring showcases the number 18, symbolizing the Knicks’ remarkable win streak during that historic season.
Additionally, the interior of the ring bears the inscription “Balfour 14K,” denoting the prestigious ring designer and the utilization of 14 karat gold.
According to Heritage Auctions, the ring came into their possession following a private sale, with the new owner deciding to put it up for auction through HA.
The auction house anticipates that the ring could command a price exceeding $60,000 once the bidding commences in August.
A spokesperson from Heritage Auctions expressed excitement about presenting the ring to collectors, stating, “Given this year’s Knicks playoff run, they decided it was time to put it up for auction, and we’re thrilled to have the opportunity to present it to the collecting public.”
The spokesperson added, “It belonged to a Knicks legend and Basketball Hall of Famer, and the fact that it originates from an era where championship rings were rare, we anticipate significant interest in the ring.”
Dick Barnett, a beloved Knicks player who secured two NBA titles, had his No. 12 jersey retired by the franchise. Barnett was posthumously inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2024.
Barnett peacefully passed away in his sleep in April at the age of 88.
