NBA: Knicks beat the Spurs to become champions again after 53 years
In San Antonio, Game 5 of the Finals ends 94–90 in favour of the East Coast team. And in New York, the celebrations are in full swing
The city that never sleeps stayed even more awake last night. The Knicks won their first NBA title in 53 years, beating the San Antonio Spurs 94–90, led by Jalen Brunson, the heart and soul of the team, who scored 45 points. A victory that sent New York into raptures: a liberating cry of joy rose from the thousands of people gathered in front of the giant screens set up across the city, which was awash with blue and orange. For the New York team, this is the third title in their history.
“History,” wrote the mayor Zohran Mamdani. Empire State of Mind, the song by Jay-Z and Alicia Keys, echoes through the streets. Fans are singing Who Let the Dogs Out?, echoing the Knicks coach whom they are following every move on TV screens. The police are on high alert to prevent any incidents, but controlling the crowds, especially near Madison Square Garden, is no easy task for the officers. A police car in the area was damaged during the match by fans who climbed on top of it. Traffic has come to a complete standstill as Knicks fans have flooded the streets, but the cars don’t seem to be in a hurry and want to celebrate.
In San Antonio, where the match was played, the players burst into tears. Brunson, after hugging his father, former NBA player Rick Brunson, at the side of the court, managed to say just a few words to ESPN’s microphones before taking to the stage wearing a black T-shirt bearing the words ‘NBA Champion’ and lifting the trophy. The Knicks won four games against the Spurs, who won just one. In Game 5 in San Antonio, they had to come from behind, just as they had done in the previous game. The final four minutes were fraught with tension.
A mid-range shot from Brunson with one minute and five seconds remaining put the Knicks ahead 90–88. Wembanyama tried to single-handedly lead the Spurs in the final minutes, but failed. Clearly frustrated at the end of the match, he left the court immediately. He scored 19 points in the match and, when his final three-point attempt missed, the Big Apple erupted with joy. For New York, this victory is historic. Far more so than the World Cup that has just begun.
