Three Knicks Champions Waived Before NBA Season: What’s Next?
Jeremy Sochan, Dillon Jones and Trey Jemison III are reportedly without NBA teams just months after winning the 2026 championship with the New York Knicks.
Just months after celebrating the New York Knicks’ historic 2026 NBA championship, three members of the title-winning roster are facing an unexpected challenge. Trey Jemison III, Dillon Jones and Jeremy Sochan have reportedly been waived, leaving their NBA futures uncertain ahead of the 2026-27 season.
Winning an NBA championship guarantees a permanent place in franchise history, but it doesn’t guarantee job security.
The New York Knicks ended their 53-year championship drought in 2026, creating unforgettable memories for players and fans alike. However, as the new season approaches, several members of that historic roster are searching for another opportunity.
Trey Jemison III, Dillon Jones and Jeremy Sochan are currently without NBA contracts following recent roster cuts.
Although none played a major role in New York’s championship run, all three will forever be associated with one of the greatest moments in Knicks history.
Three Former Knicks Face an Unexpected Reality
NBA teams are finalizing their rosters before opening night, and the competition for available spots has become increasingly intense.
Jemison, Jones and Sochan have all been affected by those decisions.
Jones joined the Philadelphia 76ers during training camp, while Sochan attempted to secure a place with the Portland Trail Blazers. Both were released on October 17.
Meanwhile, Jemison signed a two-way contract with the Toronto Raptors in August but was waived last week after appearing in only one preseason game.
An apparent hand injury reportedly complicated his brief stay in Toronto.
With the regular season approaching, the three former Knicks must now evaluate their next opportunities.
Jeremy Sochan’s Knicks Championship Connection Is Unforgettable
Of the three players, Jeremy Sochan made the most notable contribution during New York’s championship postseason.
After arriving from the San Antonio Spurs in February, the versatile forward appeared in eight playoff games, playing a total of 26 minutes.
Despite his limited role, Sochan converted seven of his nine field-goal attempts.
His most memorable moment came during the closing seconds of Game 5 of the NBA Finals.
Sochan was on the court when Victor Wembanyama attempted a desperate three-pointer, helping contest the final shot as New York secured its championship.
His previous experience with San Antonio also made him an intriguing figure during the Finals matchup.
Now, the former ninth overall draft pick faces another important crossroads in his NBA career.
Dillon Jones and Trey Jemison Search for Another Chance
Dillon Jones has an unusual championship résumé.
The forward was associated with the Oklahoma City Thunder’s 2025 title-winning team before becoming part of New York’s championship roster in 2026.
Despite those accomplishments, he has struggled to establish a permanent role in an NBA rotation.
His versatility could still attract interest from teams seeking developmental depth or two-way contract candidates.
Jemison faces a similar challenge.
The center offered New York additional frontcourt insurance during its championship season but did not feature in the playoffs.
Following his brief spell with Toronto, he must now find another opportunity to demonstrate his value.
For both players, the NBA G League could provide a route back to the league.
Knicks Championship History Doesn’t Guarantee Roster Security
The three players combined for only 36 regular-season appearances with New York during the 2025-26 campaign.
Their limited playing time illustrates the difficult reality facing players on the fringes of NBA rosters.
Even championship experience cannot eliminate the competition for guaranteed contracts.
Teams must balance immediate needs, salary considerations and long-term development when making final roster decisions.
For Jemison, Jones and Sochan, the coming weeks could determine whether they return to the NBA quickly or spend time rebuilding their opportunities elsewhere.
Once a Knick, Always an NBA Champion
Regardless of what happens next, the three former Knicks share an achievement that cannot be taken away.
They were members of the team that brought the Larry O’Brien Trophy back to New York after more than five decades.
Their contributions may have been limited compared with stars such as Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns, but their names remain connected to the franchise’s historic triumph.
The championship celebration is now part of history. For Jemison, Jones and Sochan, the next challenge is proving they still belong in the NBA.
And while their immediate futures remain uncertain, another opportunity could be just one roster move away.
