Written by Rhea Alison, Sports reporter, covering international sports since 2020
Jalen Brunson delivered one of the greatest performances in New York Knicks history as the Knicks defeated the San Antonio Spurs 94-90 in Game 5 of the 2026 NBA Finals on Saturday night in San Antonio. The victory secured New York's first NBA championship since 1973, ending a 53-year wait and completing a memorable playoff run led by Brunson's 45-point masterclass.
Brunson Carries Knicks to Historic Title
The Spurs appeared ready to extend the series after racing to a 31-15 first-quarter lead. However, the Knicks once again showed the resilience that defined their postseason campaign. Brunson steadily pulled New York back into the contest, knocking down key shots throughout the game and taking over in the fourth quarter.
The atmosphere inside the arena shifted as New York chipped away at the deficit. Every Brunson basket seemed to increase the pressure on the young Spurs roster. His floater with just over a minute remaining gave the Knicks a lead they would not surrender.
"I’ve got no words," Brunson said after a long pause, with tears in his eyes. "It’s everything I ever dreamed of."
"I don’t know what I’m feeling. I’m just, like, I’m in awe. I don’t know. Whenever someone counted us out, we find a way to come back and do something about."
Knicks Finish Remarkable Playoff Run
Brunson finished with 45 points, while Mikal Bridges added 14. The Knicks overcame poor shooting from several key contributors, including Karl-Anthony Towns, whose offensive struggles were offset by strong rebounding and defensive work.
San Antonio received 25 points from Dylan Harper and 19 points from Victor Wembanyama, but the Spurs struggled offensively late in the game. Several missed opportunities in the closing minutes allowed New York to complete another comeback victory.
The championship caps one of the most impressive playoff stretches in recent NBA history and cements Brunson's place among Knicks legends.
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