Jalen Brunson scored 45 points [1] to lead the New York Knicks to a 94-90 [3] victory over the San Antonio Spurs on June 13, 2026.
The win clinches the NBA championship for the Knicks, marking their first title since 1973 [4]. This victory represents the third championship in the history of the franchise [5].
Brunson's performance in Game 5 set a New York Knicks franchise record for the most points scored in a single NBA Finals game [9]. The victory was secured after the Knicks rallied from a 16-point deficit [6]. Brunson contributed 15 points [2] in the fourth quarter alone to ensure the comeback.
Following the victory, Brunson was named the NBA Finals MVP. He averaged 32.6 points [7] per game throughout the series. At 6 feet 2 inches, Brunson becomes only the fourth player of his height or shorter to win the award [8]. He joins a distinguished group that includes Stephen Curry, Isiah Thomas, and Tony Parker [8].
The Knicks' victory ends a decades-long drought for the city of New York. The team's ability to overcome a double-digit deficit in the deciding game highlights the resilience of the roster under pressure.
“The win clinches the NBA championship for the Knicks, marking their first title since 1973.”
The 2026 championship restores the New York Knicks to the top of the NBA after more than 50 years. By securing the title through a record-breaking individual performance by Brunson, the franchise has established a new era of competitiveness and a centerpiece star capable of historic postseason production.
