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New York Knicks Capture 2025 NBA Cup with Gritty Comeback Victory Over Spurs

A Championship Fifty Years in the Making

In a thrilling display of resilience, the New York Knicks have been crowned the 2025 NBA Cup champions, defeating the San Antonio Spurs 124-113 in a come-from-behind victory. This triumph marks the franchise's first trophy of any kind since their last NBA Finals win in the 1972-73 season, ending a championship drought that spanned over half a century. By joining the Los Angeles Lakers (2023) and Milwaukee Bucks (2024) as winners of the relatively new in-season tournament, the Knicks have not only secured a prestigious title but also sent a powerful message about their championship potential in the broader 2024-25 campaign.

Game Recap: A Tale of Two Halves

The championship game in Las Vegas was a dramatic contest defined by momentum swings and critical responses to adversity.

• Spurs Start Strong: The San Antonio Spurs, riding high after a semifinal victory over the formidable 24-2 Oklahoma City Thunder, carried their momentum into the title game. They built an 11-point lead late in the third quarter, threatening to run away with the contest. Their attack was balanced, with seven different players ultimately scoring in double digits.

• Knicks' Bench Fuels the Rally: The Knicks' response to this deficit was a testament to their improved roster depth. Sparked by key contributions off the bench, they unleashed a decisive run. Veteran guard Jordan Clarkson hit back-to-back three-pointers during a critical 8-0 burst that shifted the game's momentum and allowed the Knicks to seize the lead for good.

Unsung Heroes Step into the Spotlight

While stars Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns faced challenges, the Knicks' supporting cast delivered a championship-level performance.

• OG Anunoby's Two-Way Mastery: Forward OG Anunoby was the engine of the Knicks' offense, putting up a game-high 28 points on efficient 10-of-17 shooting, along with 9 rebounds. His back-to-back dunks just before halftime, including one off a forced turnover, were pivotal in stopping the Spurs' momentum and keeping the game within reach.

• Dominance on the Glass: Center Mitchell Robinson was a force of nature on the boards, particularly on the offensive end. He grabbed a staggering 10 offensive rebounds, repeatedly extending possessions and demoralizing the Spurs' defense with second-chance opportunities. He finished with 15 total rebounds.

• Vital Bench Production: The backcourt duo of Tyler Kolek and Jordan Clarkson provided essential scoring punch off the bench, both reaching double figures. Their energy and shot-making were crucial during the comeback, filling the void on a night when the starters struggled with efficiency.

Brunson himself acknowledged their indispensable role after accepting the NBA Cup MVP award, stating, "Without Tyler Kolek, OG Anunoby, Mitchell Robinson and Jordan Clarkson, we don’t win this game."

Financial Rewards and Strategic Implications

The victory came with significant tangible rewards for the Knicks' roster. Each player earned $530,933 in prize money, a life-changing sum for the team's younger and role players. The runners-up from San Antonio each received $212,373.

Beyond the financial windfall, the win carries profound implications for the Knicks' season. Historically, off-nights from Brunson or Towns have spelled trouble in the playoffs. This game proved they now possess the depth and versatility to win in multiple ways, a development that makes them a far more formidable threat in the Eastern Conference, where they currently hold the second seed with an 18-7 record.

Spurs' Valiant Effort Led by Wembanyama

The San Antonio Spurs, despite the loss, demonstrated why they belong on this stage.

• Victor Wembanyama's Impact: The Spurs were bolstered by the return of their superstar, Victor Wembanyama, who played 25 minutes—an increase from his semifinal appearance. He finished with 18 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 blocks, showing flashes of his unique skill set, including two third-quarter three-pointers that helped San Antonio maintain its lead for a time.

• Balanced Attack: The team displayed impressive balance. De'Aaron Fox orchestrated the offense with 16 points and 9 assists, while rookie Stephon Castle filled the stat sheet with 15 points and 12 assists. Veterans like Devin Vassell (12 points) and Luke Kornet (10 points) provided consistent scoring.

A Foundation for Greater Aspirations

The 2025 NBA Cup championship is more than just an in-season trophy for the New York Knicks; it is a symbol of a transformed identity. For a franchise and a fanbase that has endured decades of frustration, this victory validates a team-building process focused on toughness, depth, and collective grit. By winning a title without peak performances from their two leading stars, the Knicks have demonstrated a championship mettle that has long been absent from Madison Square Garden.

As the regular season resumes—with the stats from this championship game not counting toward season totals—the Knicks carry with them not just a trophy and prize money, but the proven confidence that they can overcome adversity and win when it matters most. For the first time in many years, the New York Knicks are not just a hopeful story; they are a team to be feared, with their sights now firmly set on the ultimate prize that has eluded them since 1973.