Knicks clinch first NBA championship since 1973, defeating Spurs

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Jun 14, 2026, 5:43 AM

Last updated Jun 14, 2026

Knicks clinch first NBA championship since 1973, defeating Spurs
Summary

The New York Knicks secured their first NBA championship since 1973 with a 94-90 victory over the San Antonio Spurs on June 13. Jalen Brunson led the Knicks with 45 points, clinching the series 4-1. The Spurs, who made a surprising run to the finals with a youthful roster, had built double-digit leads in multiple games but could not close out the series. Devin Vassell expressed disappointment but noted the team's future looked promising with young stars like Victor Wembanyama. Coach Mitch Johnson emphasized the importance of using this experience for motivation moving forward.

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By the Numbers
  • Knicks win NBA championship with a 4-1 series victory over Spurs.
  • Jalen Brunson scored 45 points in the decisive Game 5.
  • Spurs reached the finals after a surprising turnaround season.
  • Victor Wembanyama played a key role in the Spurs' success.
  • Spurs coach Mitch Johnson discussed lessons learned from the series.
Latest Updates
  • 5:43 AMYahoo SportsA season of success for San Antonio ends in bitter disappointment, but the future is bright
What they're saying
"

As Devin Vassell reflected on what could have been for the San Antonio Spurs, reality loudly interrupted his thoughts. The sounds of the New York Knicks and their fans celebrating the team's first NBA championship since 1973 spilled into the recesses of the Frost Bank Center, drowning out Vassell's postgame interview. “Our goal was to win, obviously," Vassell said.

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