The New York Knicks are NBA champions for the first time since 1973, closing out the Finals four games to one with a 94-90 road victory over the San Antonio Spurs in Game 5, ending the longest championship drought in franchise history.
The win did not come easily. The Knicks trailed by double digits in the first half and remained down seven points heading into the fourth quarter before turning the game around, outscoring San Antonio 29-18 in the final period to seal the title inside the building of the team that had pushed them through the entire series.
Jalen Brunson carried New York to the finish with 45 points, shooting 14 of 27 from the field and a ruthless 13 of 15 from the free throw line in a closing performance worthy of Finals MVP honours. Josh Hart contributed 13 points and 11 rebounds, Mikal Bridges added 14 points, and OG Anunoby finished with 11 points and three steals, anchoring the late defensive switches that shut down San Antonio’s offence in the closing minutes.
Fifty-three years after their last championship, the Knicks are once again on top of the basketball world.
