Paris – 31.05.2026: Jeremy Sochan, the 22-year-old Polish forward for the New York Knicks, is in an exceptional position. Even before the 2026 NBA Finals start on June 3, it is already certain that Sochan will receive a championship ring – regardless of whether the New York Knicks or the San Antonio Spurs win the title. This special situation has become possible due to the unusual season of the player.
At the beginning of the current season, Sochan was part of the roster of the San Antonio Spurs, for whom he played in 28 games. In February 2026, the player was released by the Spurs. After the All-Star break, Sochan made the move to the New York Knicks, for whom he played another 16 games, contributing to the team’s successful season.
In the NBA, it is customary for players who were active for a team during the regular season, regardless of whether they are on the playoff roster, to receive a championship ring if that team wins the title. This tradition honors the contributions of all players who contributed to the successful season. Because Sochan played for both finalists this season, he is eligible to receive a championship ring from both teams – a first in the NBA.
If the Knicks win the championship, Sochan would become the first Polish NBA champion. Since his move to New York, he has played five games in the playoffs, averaging 4.0 points and 1.0 rebound per game.
The 2026 NBA Finals between the New York Knicks and the San Antonio Spurs begin on June 3. The series consists of up to seven games held in San Antonio and New York. Regardless of the outcome, Jeremy Sochan will go down in NBA history as a winner – a remarkable situation that reflects his exceptional season.
However, this arrangement also raises questions about how a player’s contribution to the championship is assessed when he has changed teams during the season. For Sochan, the situation is unique so far and represents a personal success that will boost his career.
The peculiarity of Sochan’s situation also reflects the flexible and dynamic nature of NBA teams during the season, where player trades and transfers are no exception in modern professional sports. This example shows how such circumstances can influence awards and recognition – beyond just playing time.