William Holzman

A Coaching Legend

Holzman wasn’t just a coach—he was the architect behind the Knicks’ only two NBA championships, building a team defined by selflessness, defense, and intelligence. Under his leadership, the Knicks became a model for team basketball, setting a standard that still influences the game today.

From Player to Coaching Legend

Born in 1920 in Brooklyn, New York, Holzman was a standout player at City College of New York (CCNY) before serving in World War II. After returning, he played in the BAA/NBA as a guard for the Rochester Royals, helping them win a championship in 1951.

But Holzman’s real legacy came on the sidelines.

• Became head coach of the New York Knicks in 1967.
• Revolutionized team basketball, emphasizing defense, ball movement, and unselfish play.
• Led the Knicks to two NBA Championships (1970, 1973).
• Won NBA Coach of the Year in 1970.

By the time he retired, Holzman had cemented himself as one of the most influential coaches in NBA history.

The Numbers Tell the Story

Holzman’s coaching resume speaks for itself:

• Two-time NBA Champion (1970, 1973)
• NBA Coach of the Year (1970)
• 696 career wins (one of the highest totals in NBA history at the time of his retirement).
• Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1986.
• His number “613” (representing his Knicks wins) is retired in Madison Square Garden—one of the few coaches to receive such an honor.

Holzman wasn’t just successful—he changed how basketball was played, proving that teamwork and defense could win championships.

Red Holzman’s Knicks: The Ultimate Team

Before Holzman arrived, the Knicks were a struggling franchise. By instilling discipline, teamwork, and a focus on defense, he transformed them into a powerhouse.

• Emphasized unselfish play and ball movement, inspiring the modern concept of team basketball.
• Created one of the best defensive teams in NBA history, anchored by Willis Reed, Walt Frazier, and Dave DeBusschere.
• Made passing a priority, with the Knicks leading the league in assists multiple times under his leadership.

His system led to two championships and a decade of dominance, cementing his place as one of the greatest coaches of all time.

Two Moments That Define Red Holzman

Leading the Knicks to Their First NBA Championship (1970)

The 1969-70 season was Holzman’s masterpiece. The Knicks won a franchise-record 60 games, but the defining moment came in Game 7 of the NBA Finals against the Lakers.

• With Willis Reed injured and uncertain to play, Holzman inspired his team to rise to the occasion.
• Reed limped onto the court, sparking one of the most iconic moments in NBA history.
• The Knicks, led by Walt Frazier’s legendary 36-point, 19-assist performance, dominated the Lakers to win their first-ever title.

Holzman’s philosophy of team-first basketball and relentless defense had won the Knicks their first championship.

The 1973 NBA Championship – Cementing a Dynasty

Three years later, Holzman led the Knicks back to the promised land.

• With a core of Frazier, Reed, DeBusschere, Bill Bradley, and Earl Monroe, the Knicks played a brand of basketball built on passing, defense, and selflessness.
• They took down the Lakers in five games, securing their second and last NBA title.

No Knicks team has won a championship since, making Holzman’s success even more legendary.

Red Holzman’s Most Iconic Basketball Cards & Memorabilia

Since Holzman was a coach, there are fewer traditional basketball cards of him, but collectors still seek out:

1971 Topps Red Holzman Coach Card

A vintage card featuring Holzman during the height of the Knicks’ dominance.

1974 Topps New York Knicks Team Card

Celebrating the Knicks’ second championship under Holzman.

Autographed Memorabilia

Holzman’s signature is a rare find, making signed basketballs, programs, and team photos highly valuable.

Why Red Holzman’s Legacy Still Matters Today

Red Holzman’s impact goes far beyond the Knicks’ two championships.

• He pioneered team-first basketball, inspiring future coaches like Gregg Popovich and Steve Kerr.
• He made defense a championship-winning philosophy.
• His Knicks teams remain the gold standard for unselfish, beautiful basketball.
• He built the culture that still defines New York basketball today.

To own a Red Holzman card or piece of memorabilia is to own a piece of basketball’s coaching Mount Rushmore, a tribute to one of the greatest basketball minds the game has ever known.

Red Holzman isn’t just a Knicks legend—he’s the mastermind behind one of basketball’s most beautiful dynasties.