BREAKING NEWS: It is Done New York Knicks Legend Patrick Ewing Returns as Co-Owner In a monumental, New York Knicks owner James Dolan and his family has officially declared that Patrick Ewing the legendary Center and long-time face of the franchise, will return to the organization in 2025 as a co-owner..…view more

In what is being hailed as one of the most emotional and long-awaited reunions in NBA and franchise history, New York Knicks legend Patrick Ewing is officially returning to the organization — not as a coach, not as an ambassador, but as a co-owner.

In a stunning announcement earlier this morning, Knicks owner James Dolan and the Madison Square Garden Sports Corp. confirmed that Ewing has joined the team’s ownership group, becoming a minority co-owner and executive board advisor for the Knicks — the very franchise he helped define through grit, loyalty, and dominance in the paint.

“Patrick Ewing is New York basketball,” Dolan said in a rare public statement. “This organization would not be what it is today without him, and it’s only right that he returns not just as a legend, but as a leader in our future.”

A Full-Circle Moment for the Heart of the Garden

Drafted No. 1 overall in 1985, Patrick Ewing spent 15 unforgettable seasons with the Knicks, becoming an 11-time All-Star, Olympic gold medalist, and the all-time leader in nearly every major statistical category in Knicks history.

His iconic battles with Michael Jordan’s Bulls, Reggie Miller’s Pacers, and the Heat during the ’90s made him the face of a franchise and a generation. But despite his contributions, Ewing’s post-playing relationship with the Knicks remained distant — until now.

“This is home,” Ewing said during the announcement at Madison Square Garden. “This city, this team — they’ve never left my heart. And now, I get to come back not just to honor the past, but to help build the future.”

From Hardwood to Boardroom: Ewing’s New Role

In his new role as minority co-owner and executive advisor, Ewing will be involved in:

• Front office development and culture building

• Community outreach and youth basketball initiatives across New York City

• Mentorship for big men and young Knicks prospects

• Strategic decisions on player wellness and team leadership

Sources say Ewing’s stake in the team, while not controlling, represents a meaningful equity investment — one he personally negotiated alongside Dolan and top MSG executives.

A City Reacts — Loud and Proud

Within minutes of the announcement, the basketball world and the city of New York exploded with emotion.

Spike Lee, the Knicks’ most famous fan, posted:

“YES!!! PATRICK IS BACK WHERE HE BELONGS. THIS IS HISTORY. THIS IS FAMILY.”

Walt “Clyde” Frazier, calling the news live on MSG Network, was nearly in tears:

“There’s no one more deserving. The Garden lights shine a little brighter today.”

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver added:

“Patrick Ewing’s return to the Knicks is a celebration of legacy, loyalty, and leadership. His impact on the game — and now on the business of the game — continues to grow.”

Bridging the Past and the Future

Ewing’s return comes at a pivotal time for the Knicks. With rising stars like Jalen Brunson, RJ Barrett, and a resurgent Madison Square Garden fanbase, New York is finally back in playoff contention.

Adding Ewing to the ownership group is both symbolic and strategic — giving the team a leader who understands the unique pressures and passion of New York basketball.

“I’m not coming back just to wear a suit and smile,” Ewing said. “I’m here to help bring a banner to the Garden. We owe that to the fans — and I’m not done fighting for it.”

A Legend Returns — A Legacy Continues

Patrick Ewing’s return to the Knicks isn’t just a front-office move — it’s a cultural reset. For a franchise and fanbase starved for a championship, the man who once carried the weight of the city on his back is now helping carry its future — from the inside.