Meet Red Holzman
the legendary Jewish coach who led the New York Knicks to their only two NBA championships.
Born in Brooklyn to Jewish immigrant parents, Red never forgot where he came from. The toughness, humility, loyalty, and resilience that defined his coaching style were values deeply rooted in his upbringing.
As head coach of the New York Knicks, he led the franchise to championships in 1970 and 1973, cementing his place as one of the greatest coaches in basketball history.
But Red’s legacy was never just about winning.
It was about the way he carried himself:
• Humble in victory
• Resilient through adversity
• Loyal to his players
• Proud of his Jewish roots
At a time when there were few openly proud Jewish figures in professional sports, Red became a symbol of Jewish excellence in New York City and beyond.
He inspired generations of Jewish basketball fans who saw someone like them leading on the biggest stage in sports.
To this day, his name is woven into the fabric of Madison Square Garden, New York City, and Knicks history.
A Jewish legend.
A basketball icon.
A true New Yorker.