Former Marquette Golden Eagles basketball star Tyler Kolekis finally a champion in the NBA — NBA Cup champion, that is.
Kolek played an integral rolein the New York Knicks’ 124-113 victory in Las Vegas over the San Antonio Spurs in the championship game of the NBA’s in-season tournament. Not many expected Kolek to play as effectively as he did, but the Knicks are certainly thrilled over his showing. Kolek provided a huge boost off the bench for the New York, as he scored 14 points on 5/9 shooting from the field with two 3-pointers, five assists and five rebounds in 20 minutes. He also had a plus-14 in the contest.
How hard did Kolek play?
Let’s just say that his sock had a hole in it when it was all said and done, as noticed by NBA on Prime host and former Miami Heat forward Udonis Haslem.
“You played so hard you got a hole in your sock,” Haslem quipped.
"You played so hard you got a hole in your sock."
Tyler Kolek has proof of his incredible efforts in the @emirates NBA Cup Championship game 😭 https://t.co/0srhaIRMdX pic.twitter.com/J8Owa0yiod
— NBA (@NBA) December 17, 2025
Fans reack to ex-Marquette star Kolek’s sock
Of course, the fans had a good time reacting to his poor sock – and Kolek’s performance.
“That’s real hustle 😭 playing until your socks tap out is crazy work. Respect the effort.,” said a fan on X.
Another one said: “Sock MVP confirmed.”
From a commenter: “Come on man not in front of Taylor Rooks 😭”
“Hole in the sock, full heart that’s love for the game.,” a social media user posted.
Via a different commenter: “I guess we know what he’s using that prize money on…..”
Said another: “sock tells the story 🏀”
Kolek surely has the money to buy a new pair of socks. He could even start a sock factory with the $530,000 in prize money that the NBA rewarded each player on the winning team in the NBA Cup finals.
Mar 29, 2024; Dallas, TX, USA; Marquette Golden Eagles head coach Shaka Smart talks to guard Tyler Kolek (11) during the first half in the semifinals of the South Regional of the 2024 NCAA Tournament against the North Carolina State Wolfpack at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
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