Tyler Kolek Claims NBA Title With New York Knicks
Former MU standout becomes seventh player to claim championship
NEW YORK — Former Marquette University guard Tyler Kolek became the seventh player in program history to claim a National Basketball Association (NBA) title on Saturday when the New York Knicks defeated the San Antonio Spurs, 94-90, on the road to claim the seven-game series (4-1).
The second-year guard is the second Marquette alum to claim a title with the Knicks, joining Dean “The Dream” Meminger in 1972-73.
Kolek appeared in 70 games this season for the Knicks between regular and postseason action in 2025-26, netting a career-high 20 points at Minnesota on Dec. 23 to go along with 11 rebounds and eight assists.
Prior to Kolek, the most recent former Marquette player to earn a championship was Juan Toscano-Anderson with the Golden State Warriors in 2021-22. Doc Rivers led the Boston Celtics to the world title as head coach in 2007-08.
- Dean Meminger (Knicks, 1972-73)
- Maurice Lucas (Trail Blazers, 1976-77) – 50th anniversary in 2026-27
- Jim Chones (Lakers, 1979-80)
- Butch Lee (Lakers, 1979-80) – also claimed NCAA title in 1976-77
- Dwyane Wade (Heat, 2005-06, 2011-12, 2012-13)
- Doc Rivers – head coach (Celtics, 2007-08)
- Juan Toscano-Anderson (Warriors, 2021-22)
- Tyler Kolek (Knicks, 2025-26)
NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.
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