Knicks vs. Spurs NBA Finals: It all started with Jalen Brunson, and it all ended with him as well – as NBA champion
The New York Knicks won the 2026 NBA Championship for the first time in 53 years, defeating the San Antonio Spurs. Jalen Brunson earned the Bill Russell NBA Finals MVP award after scoring 45 points in the deciding Game 5 at the Frost Bank Center, according to official game records and post-game statements.
Brunson led the Knicks to victory with a 14-for-27 shooting performance from the field and 13-for-15 from the free-throw line. The win ended a half-century title drought for the franchise and established Brunson as the first Knick to ever score 40 points in an NBA Finals game.
How did Jalen Brunson lead the Knicks to the 2026 title?
Brunson scored 45 points in 41 minutes during Game 5, including 29 points in the second half and 16 in the fourth quarter. According to Brunson, he focused on “willing” the team to win by getting stops and cutting into the Spurs’ lead.
The Knicks overcame multiple double-digit deficits throughout the Finals. This included a Game 4 comeback where New York erased a 29-point lead against San Antonio, which the team described as the greatest comeback in NBA history.
Brunson’s efficiency improved significantly as the series progressed. While he averaged 25 points on 33.9% shooting in the first two games, he averaged 37.7 points on 48.1% shooting over the final three games, according to performance data.
Why was Brunson’s contract decision critical for the championship?
Coach Mike Brown attributed the roster’s depth to Brunson’s decision to sign a four-year, $156.5 million contract extension in the summer of 2024. By doing so, Brunson bypassed a potential five-year pact that could have reached an estimated $269 million.
This $113 million salary difference allowed the Knicks to retain OG Anunoby and sign Mikal Bridges. It also provided the financial room to fit the supermax salary of Karl-Anthony Towns without exceeding the second apron, according to Brown.
Brunson stated that while the contract was a factor, the outcome was a result of the team bonding and believing in each other. Towns added that Brunson’s willingness to “open the door” for other stars was key to the organization’s success.
What historical records did the Knicks and Brunson set?
Brunson’s 45-point performance in Game 5 places him among 11 players in NBA history to reach that mark in the Finals, including LeBron James and Stephen Curry. He is one of only six players to achieve this on the road.
The championship marks the first for the New York Knicks in 53 years. Former Knicks legend Patrick Ewing, who traveled with the team during the run, described the victory as a weight lifted after decades of falling short.
The team’s resilience was a recurring theme. Beyond the Finals, the Knicks overcame 20-point deficits against the Boston Celtics and a 22-point fourth-quarter deficit against the Cleveland Cavaliers during the postseason.
What could happen next for the Knicks?
Having secured their first title in over five decades, the Knicks may look to leverage this momentum to build a dynasty. The core of Brunson, Towns, and Anunoby could potentially serve as the foundation for future title runs.
The franchise may also see an increase in its global profile following the high-profile victory over Victor Wembanyama and the Spurs. Analysts expect the team to maintain its current roster structure as long as they remain under the second apron.
Brunson, now cemented as a franchise legend, could likely see his status as a “1A” superstar further solidified in future MVP conversations, a designation Coach Mike Brown already supports.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many years had it been since the New York Knicks last won an NBA championship?
The Knicks had not won a championship in 53 years prior to the 2026 title.
What were Jalen Brunson’s statistics in the deciding Game 5?
Brunson scored 45 points on 14-for-27 shooting from the field, 4-for-7 from 3-point range, and 13-for-15 from the free-throw line.
How did Brunson’s contract affect the team’s roster?
By signing a $156.5 million extension instead of a potential $269 million deal, Brunson created financial flexibility that allowed the Knicks to retain OG Anunoby and add Mikal Bridges and Karl-Anthony Towns.
Do you think the Knicks can defend their title in 2027?