New York Knicks win 2026 NBA championship, ending 53‑year drought

The New York Knicks defeated the San Antonio Spurs 4‑1 in Game 5 of the 2026 NBA Finals, clinching the franchise’s first championship since 1973. Jalen Brunson scored 45 points and was named Finals MVP, while Karl‑Anthony Towns was fouled out in the decisive game. Spurs center Victor Wembanyama left the court immediately after the final buzzer, prompting a media debate about post‑game etiquette.

The Game 5 telecast averaged 24.5 million viewers, the most‑watched NBA Finals Game 5 since 1998, and the series averaged 20.6 million viewers across five games. The victory sparked massive celebrations across New York City, with streets lit in orange and blue, a televised parade along Broadway’s Canyon of Heroes, and record merchandise sales. A few hours after the win, celebrations turned violent in Times Square, resulting in shootings, stabbings, vehicle fires and dozens of arrests. Analysts also discussed the league’s parity, with ESPN’s Vincent Goodwill calling the trophy a “participation award” and others defending the value of a single championship.