The New York Knicks are NBA champions once again.
The Knicks ended a 53-year championship drought tonight, defeating the San Antonio Spurs 94-90 in Game 5 of the NBA Finals to capture the franchise’s first NBA title since 1973.
With the victory, New York won the best-of-seven series 4-1, completing a remarkable postseason run that will be remembered as one of the greatest seasons in franchise history.
Playing in front of a hostile crowd at the Frost Bank Center, the Knicks relied on a relentless defensive effort and timely scoring down the stretch to secure the championship-clinching win. Despite several runs by the Spurs, New York maintained its composure in the closing minutes to preserve the victory and bring the Larry O’Brien Trophy back to New York.
The championship marks the end of more than five decades of frustration for one of the NBA’s most passionate fan bases. The Knicks last won an NBA title in 1973 and have endured numerous playoff disappointments and rebuilding efforts since then.
New York entered the Finals as one of the league’s hottest teams and took control of the series with dramatic performances, including a historic comeback victory in Game 4 that gave the Knicks a commanding 3-1 lead.
As the final seconds ticked off the clock in San Antonio, players, coaches, and fans celebrated a moment generations had waited to witness. Across New York City and beyond, jubilant supporters poured into the streets to celebrate the franchise’s long-awaited return to the top of the basketball world.
The championship adds a new chapter to the storied history of the Knicks and cements the 2025-26 team as one of the most memorable squads in franchise history.
For New York basketball fans, the wait is finally over.
The Knicks are champions.
Credit: AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin