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Knicks and Spurs face off in NBA Finals with differing paths to success

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 1, 2026, 7:07 PM

Last updated Jun 1, 2026

Knicks and Spurs face off in NBA Finals with differing paths to success

Summary

The NBA Finals between the New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs is set to start Wednesday in San Antonio. Both teams have reached this stage through distinct strategies: the Knicks heavily relying on acquisitions like Jalen Brunson, whereas the Spurs emphasize drafting, with six of the ten expected rotation players drafted by the franchise. The Knicks, appearing in their first Finals since 1999, have a history of struggles, while the Spurs benefit from stability under interim coach Mitch Johnson following Gregg Popovich's long tenure. Both teams reflect contrasting models of building a championship contender.

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By the Numbers

•NBA Finals starting Wednesday in San Antonio
•Knicks rely on acquired stars like Jalen Brunson
•Spurs' roster features six drafted players
•Knicks last reached Finals in 1999
•Spurs maintain stability under interim coach Mitch Johnson

Latest Updates

7:07 PMYahoo Sports — Big market, small market, same NBA Finals stage: How the Knicks and Spurs got here so differently

What they're saying

"
Getting to the NBA Finals proves that the New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs have made plenty of smart moves along the way. You need a star, like a Jalen Brunson or a Victor Wembanyama. Of the 10 players that the Spurs are most likely to have in the regular rotation for this series, six were drafted by San Antonio.
— Yahoo Sportsby BRIAN MAHONEY and TIM REYNOLDS

Related Teams & Leagues

New York Knicks San Antonio Spurs NBA Basketball

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Yahoo SportsJun 1, 2026, 7:07 PM
Big market, small market, same NBA Finals stage: How the Knicks and Spurs got here so differently
Getting to the NBA Finals proves that the New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs have made plenty of smart moves along the way. You need a star, like a Jalen Brunson or a Victor Wembanyama. Of the 10 players that the Spurs are most likely to have in the regular rotation for this series, six were drafted by San Antonio.

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