What happened: Mikal Bridges was visibly emotional following the New York Knicks' 94-90 victory over the San Antonio Spurs to clinch the 2026 NBA Championship. Bridges played 38 minutes in the Game 5 win, contributing key defensive stops and perimeter shooting as the franchise ended a 53-year title drought.
Why it matters: The championship validates the aggressive trade strategy used to reunite the "Nova Knicks" roster in New York. For Mikal Bridges, the win marks his first career title after falling just short in the 2021 Finals with Phoenix.
By the numbers: In the clinching Game 5, Bridges recorded 14 points, 4 assists, and 2 rebounds while shooting 3-of-7 from beyond the arc. The Knicks overcame a 7-point fourth-quarter deficit, outscoring the Spurs 29-18 in the final frame to secure the 4-1 series win.
What to watch: The Knicks will return to New York for a championship parade celebrating their first title since 1973.