Knicks win first NBA championship in 53 years led by Villanova trio

The New York Knicks secured their first NBA championship in 53 years by defeating the San Antonio Spurs on June 14, 2026. Jalen Brunson, named Finals MVP, and former Villanova teammates Josh Hart and Mikal Bridges were key contributors. Their victory coincides with the celebration of Cardinal Robert Prevost, a Villanova alumnus, becoming Pope Leo XIV. Former Villanova coach Jay Wright praised Knicks President Leon Rose and head coach Mike Brown for assembling and leading the championship team. The current Villanova men's and women's teams are scheduled to play in front of the Pope in Rome on November 1.

• 5:56 PMYahoo Sports — Villanova has ‘delivered’ the Pope and the NBA champion Knicks