The New York Times Crossword · 5-Across · 9 letters

They get rings for hoops The New York Times Crossword clue

Editorially reviewed August 29, 2026

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9 letters

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What to notice

Use a nine-letter plural phrase for the basketball league's title winners.

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Answer

NBACHAMPS

How the trick resolves

NBACHAMPS fits because basketball is represented by “hoops,” and league champions receive championship rings. The two-word plural phrase is entered without a space.

Continue this puzzleSkin-care brand known for its pore strips →

The turn in the clue

“Hoops” indicates basketball, while “get rings” points to the league's title winners rather than ordinary jewelry recipients.

The answer in plain English

NBA champs are the team and players who win the National Basketball Association championship.

Where this clue appeared

5-Across in The New York Times Crossword puzzle for August 29, 2026.

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