Last Updated on June 16, 2026 by Mat Diekhake
The New York Knicks are one of the NBA’s original franchises, having been founded in 1946 as a charter member of the Basketball Association of America, the league that later became the NBA. Throughout their long history, the Knicks have been owned by a relatively small number of individuals and corporate groups, with the franchise spending much of the modern era under the same ownership family.
Ned Irish (1946–1974)
Ned Irish founded the New York Knicks in 1946 and served as the franchise’s first owner. A pioneer in professional basketball, Irish played a major role in the formation and growth of the BAA and NBA. Under his ownership, the Knicks became one of the league’s flagship franchises and reached multiple NBA Finals during the 1950s.
Gulf and Western Industries (1974–1982)
Media and conglomerate company Gulf and Western Industries acquired the Knicks in 1974 through its ownership of Madison Square Garden. During this period, the franchise remained one of the NBA’s premier teams following its championship successes in the early 1970s.
Madison Square Garden Corporation (1982–1997)
Ownership of the Knicks remained tied to Madison Square Garden through a series of corporate restructurings during the 1980s and 1990s. The team enjoyed one of its most competitive eras during this period, led by stars such as Patrick Ewing and highlighted by two NBA Finals appearances.
Cablevision and the Dolan Family (1997–2010)
Cablevision gained control of Madison Square Garden and the Knicks in 1997. The Dolan family became the franchise’s controlling ownership group, overseeing the team during a period of significant organizational change both on and off the court.
James Dolan and Madison Square Garden Sports (2010–Present)
James Dolan became the principal owner through Madison Square Garden Sports following corporate restructuring that separated the sports and entertainment businesses. As the Knicks’ controlling owner, Dolan has overseen the franchise during its modern era, including its recent return to playoff contention after years of rebuilding.
New York Knicks Ownership Timeline
| Owner | Years |
|---|---|
| Ned Irish | 1946–1974 |
| Gulf and Western Industries | 1974–1982 |
| Madison Square Garden Corporation | 1982–1997 |
| Cablevision & the Dolan Family | 1997–2010 |
| James Dolan & Madison Square Garden Sports | 2010–Present |
The Knicks have had relatively stable ownership throughout their history. From founder Ned Irish to the modern Dolan era, the franchise has remained closely connected to Madison Square Garden, one of the most recognizable venues in professional sports.