The New York Knicks returned to the top of the NBA after more than half a century of waiting. The New York franchise won its third championship on Saturday by defeating the San Antonio Spurs 94-90 in a thrilling Game 5 of the Finals, capping off a memorable season that will go down in basketball history.
The undisputed star of the night was Jalen Brunson, who put on an extraordinary performance, scoring 45 points and leading another comeback for the Knicks. Thanks to his brilliant performance, the point guard also won the Finals Most Valuable Player (MVP) award.
The Knicks are the 2026 NBA champions
“AFTER 53 YEARS, THE KNICKS ARE FINALLY NBA CHAMPIONS ONCE AGAIN!”
THE NEW YORK KNICKS WIN THEIR FIRST CHAMPIONSHIP SINCE 1973 🏆 pic.twitter.com/7JqXe4cU9e
— NBA (@NBA) June 14, 2026
The championship ends a drought that had lasted since 1973, when the Knicks won their last title.
For decades, New York fans dreamed of celebrating another championship, and their patience was finally rewarded with a team known for its resilience and ability to overcome adversity.
The Spurs started the game with great defensive intensity and built a lead of as many as 16 points in the first half.
Led by Victor Wembanyama and Dylan Harper, the Texans looked poised to force a longer series.
However, the Knicks once again showed why they were one of the most competitive teams of the season.
Brunson, the star of the night
Brunson seals the deal 🔥 pic.twitter.com/grzXdRdKrA
– NEW YORK KNICKS (@nyknicks) June 14, 2026
Brunson took control of the game just when his team needed him most.
With key baskets, leadership, and a cool head in the clutch, the point guard spearheaded New York’s comeback.
Mikal Bridges also made a significant contribution, scoring 14 points, as did Josh Hart, who recorded a double-double with 13 points and 11 rebounds.
For his part, the Dominican Karl-Anthony Towns had a tough night.
He scored just two points and was ejected for accumulating too many fouls, but that didn’t stop him from lifting the first Larry O’Brien Trophy of his career, following in the footsteps of other Dominican players who have achieved glory in the NBA.
San Antonio fell short
It really means something, man 🥹 pic.twitter.com/Yz6p1cnW60
– NEW YORK KNICKS (@nyknicks) June 14, 2026
San Antonio fought until the very last minutes.
Harper scored 25 points and Wembanyama posted a solid double-double with 19 points and 14 rebounds, but the team’s youth and inexperience ultimately proved to be their downfall in the decisive moments.
With this victory, the Knicks have written one of the most significant chapters in their history and restored hope to a city that had been waiting 53 years to celebrate another NBA championship.
The Big Apple is back on top in basketball.
Filed under: Knicks, 2026 NBA Champions