New York Knicks guard Josh Hart became the latest high-profile athlete to
fall victim to an expensive theft after $185,000 worth of luxury watches and jewelry vanished from his room at The Dominick Hotel in Manhattan’s SoHo district. The robbery unfolded on September 5, 2025, turning what should have been a routine offseason stay into a headline-making ordeal. Hart had dropped off his duffle bag containing a prized watch case around 12:30 p.m., only to return an hour later and find it missing.



The incident has since stirred widespread conversation, not only because of the staggering value of the stolen items but also due to the brazenness of the midday heist at a high-end hotel known for celebrity clientele and tight security. As the story circulated, speculation mounted regarding how such a theft could occur inside a property that prides itself on exclusivity and safety.



How Josh Hart was robbed - The Hotel Heist and the Missing Bag



Investigators confirmed that Josh Hart’s bag contained three luxury watches and a bracelet, although the specific brands - whether Rolex, Audemars Piguet, or otherwise - have not been revealed. What is clear is that the case disappeared from his room in broad daylight shortly after Hart checked in. The Knicks guard had recently signed an $81 million contract and was staying downtown despite maintaining a residence in Westchester, as he was set to attend an event in New York City on September 6.

With no arrests or suspects named as of late November, police have not yet determined whether the theft was the work of hotel staff, other guests, or a calculated crew familiar with the area. The lack of leads has only intensified public curiosity about the circumstances surrounding the crime.



Josh Hart’s Status, Legacy, and Off-Court Lifestyle



Josh Hart isn’t merely a role player; he’s become one of New York’s most dependable contributors. Last season, he broke the franchise record for single-season triple-doubles, and under new head coach Mike Brown he has continued averaging 10.4 points and 7.1 rebounds. Off the court, Hart is known for his passion for high-end fashion and watches, an interest shared by many NBA stars. Similar thefts involving Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Karl-Anthony Towns have only fueled debates about whether professional athletes should travel with expensive jewelry.



Hart also remains a beloved Villanova alum, part of the 2016 NCAA championship team with Jalen Brunson and Mikal Bridges - now his Knicks teammates - adding even more public attention to his situation.



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Investigation Continues as NBA Eyes Remain on Hart



The NYPD continues to investigate but has yet to uncover meaningful leads. The case mirrors a growing pattern of athlete-targeted thefts, with even celebrities like Keanu Reeves having watches recovered through federal investigations. For Hart, the loss is significant, but those familiar with his relentless playing style expect him to bounce back quickly as the Knicks chase NBA Cup success against the Bucks. Whether the stolen pieces ever reappear, however, remains an open question as the case moves forward.