In a touching moment that reminds us sports are about more than just the game, Kendra Randle, wife of NBA star Julius Randle, shared an emotional tribute to a beloved Madison Square Garden security guard who recently passed away.
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A Connection Beyond Basketball
When the Randle family returned to Madison Square Garden on Wednesday night, Kendra immediately noticed something was different. George Kohn, the security guard who had greeted her family with a warm smile for six years, wasn’t at his usual post.
“Last night at MSG I was walking to my seat and I stopped to look for my favorite security guard, George Kohn,” Kendra wrote on social media. After inquiring at halftime, she learned the devastating news—George had passed away.
Kendra Randle: Impact of Small Kindnesses
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Guard’s Name | George Kohn |
| Years of Service | 6+ years at MSG |
| Known For | Warm greetings, infectious smile, dedication |
| Section | Consistently stationed in same section |
George’s impact went far beyond checking tickets. He made families feel welcomed and safe, greeting Kendra and her sons by name at every single game. “George always greeted my boys and I with the biggest smile and would say ‘hi Mrs Randle’ every single game and get us to our seats,” she recalled.
An Emotional Plea for Connection
Kendra’s heartbreak was evident as she issued a public plea on social media: “George’s bright smile and contagious energy always put me at ease. If anyone knows his family please reach out to me.”
The gesture speaks volumes about the relationships formed during Julius Randle’s five-year tenure with the New York Knicks, where he became a three-time All-Star from 2019 to 2024. Though Julius was traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves in the 2024 offseason as part of the Karl-Anthony Towns deal, the Randle family’s bonds with New York remain strong.
Julius Randle’s New Chapter
While Kendra mourns the loss of a familiar face, Julius is thriving in Minnesota. The forward is having a career year, averaging 26.8 points on an impressive 56.0% shooting—his best numbers yet.
In a September podcast appearance, Julius revealed he’s made significant lifestyle changes since the trade, including quitting marijuana to achieve better mental clarity. “I think it’s so important to have a clear mind and being able to be strong mentally without anything influencing you,” he shared.
The decision has improved his presence at home too. Julius admitted the substance had made him emotionally distant, but he’s now more engaged with his family—a transformation Kendra had encouraged.
For more inspiring NBA stories and player updates, visit our basketball coverage for the latest news.
FAQs
Who was George Kohn?
George Kohn was a longtime Madison Square Garden security guard who worked in the same section for over six years, becoming beloved by the Randle family and many other fans for his warm greetings and infectious smile.
Is Julius Randle still with the New York Knicks?
No, Julius Randle was traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves in the 2024 offseason as part of a deal for Karl-Anthony Towns. He’s currently averaging career-high numbers with Minnesota.
