In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Jason Arasheben, owner of Jason of Beverly Hills, has shared insights into the design of the New York Knicks’ NBA Championship ring for the 2026 season. The ceremony for the ring’s unveiling is set for 20th October, coinciding with the Knicks’ season opener against the Philadelphia 76ers at Madison Square Garden. This event marks a significant milestone for the franchise, celebrating its first championship title in 53 years.
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Arasheben, renowned for his extravagant diamond creations, expressed the weight of responsibility he felt while undertaking this project. “You’re talking about arguably the greatest city on earth that’s waited 53 years for a ring,” he stated. “I understood the importance of delivering a masterpiece. Not something that’s good enough, but a masterpiece.” The designer aimed to encapsulate the spirit and energy of New York City within the ring, reflecting the significance of the achievement for the franchise and its supporters.
True to the distinct style of Jason of Beverly Hills, the championship ring is adorned with exceptional detail and symbolism, all significant to the Knicks. With over 22 carats of diamonds incorporated, Arasheben noted, “This ring has to stand the test of time,” aiming for elegance that will endure for decades. The ring features a classic cushion shape and boasts a substantial weight of over 160 grams.
At the forefront of the ring is the New York Knicks logo, crafted from vibrant orange sapphires framed by white diamonds. Behind the emblem, a radial pattern of blue sapphires emulates the iconic design of Madison Square Garden when viewed from the stands. Each side of the ring is personalised, with one side showcasing the player’s number and the other their name. The phrase “World Champions” is engraved alongside diamonds that depict the player’s jersey number.
The inner part of the ring holds particular significance, inscribed with “10 weeks,” symbolising how long owner James Dolan requested players to sacrifice during their victory run. Additionally, “Knicks in Five” commemorates the quick five-game series through which the team triumphed over the San Antonio Spurs in the finals.
Arasheben provided details on the unique elements incorporated into the ring, which tell a story through its design. Sixteen emerald-cut diamonds adorn the top, representing the total playoff wins. Moreover, there are 69 diamond points in the “World Champions” inscription, reflecting the total wins accrued over the regular season and playoffs. A significant 16-point diamond features prominently on the Larry O’Brien Trophy within the ring, a nod to the 16-point comeback during game five, a turning point that led to the championship win.
Since its establishment in 2002, Jason of Beverly Hills has become synonymous with bespoke jewellery that pushes the limits of conventional designs. Arasheben emphasised his commitment to innovation in championship rings, stating, “I always want to have something bigger and better.” For the Knicks’ ring, he developed not just one but two unique features that showcase a spirit deserving of New York.
The design includes a twist-off top that reveals a detailed miniature of Madison Square Garden’s lower bowl and basketball court in yellow gold. However, the standout feature is a twistable inner bezel that unveils a statuette of the famed venue, complete with intricate details such as windows and architectural nuances. Arasheben described it as “something that’s never been done before,” noting the engineering challenges his team overcame during its creation.
Expressing pride in the collaborative effort it took to bring this ambitious design to life, Arasheben believes this piece will resonate with fans for generations. “I’m proud of our team to create a special feature that’s never been seen before,” he concluded, underscoring the meticulous craftsmanship involved in constructing a ring that not only celebrates a triumph but also aims to capture the heart of New York itself.
As the Knicks prepare to celebrate their championship win with this remarkable ring, fans will undoubtedly anticipate its unveiling with excitement, marking a new chapter in the franchise’s storied history. With the season opener set to kick off the celebrations, the team and its supporters are ready to embrace what promises to be a historic moment.