What happened: The New York Knicks secured the 2026 NBA Championship with a 94-90 victory over the San Antonio Spurs in Game 5. Jalen Brunson scored 45 points in the clincher to finish the series 4-1. The win brings the Larry O'Brien Trophy back to Manhattan for the first time since 1973.

Why it matters: This Knicks title changes everything for a franchise that has endured a 53-year championship drought. The victory validates the team's multi-year rebuild centered on Jalen Brunson and the "Villanova Core." New York's dominant 4-1 series win over the young Spurs establishes the Knicks as the new standard-bearers in the NBA.

What to watch: New York City will host a championship parade for the Knicks through the Canyon of Heroes this week. The team enters the offseason looking to maintain their core for a potential 2027 title defense.