By Peter.
The New York Knicks claimed the 2025 Emirates NBA Cup title with a thrilling 124-113 comeback victory over the San Antonio Spurs in the championship game at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on Tuesday, December 16.
Trailing by double digits in the second half, the Knicks erupted for a dominant 35-19 fourth quarter, fueled by relentless offensive rebounding (23 total, leading to 32 second-chance points) and clutch bench production. Each Knicks player earned a $530,933 bonus, while the runner-up Spurs took home $212,373 per player.
Key Takeaways:
- Knicks’ Depth Shines Under Coach Mike Brown Jalen Brunson, named NBA Cup MVP (joining LeBron James in 2023 and Giannis Antetokounmpo in 2024), immediately credited teammates OG Anunoby (team-high 28 points, including 20 in the first half), Mitchell Robinson (dominant on the glass with multiple offensive rebounds outpacing Victor Wembanyama), and bench sparks Tyler Kolek and Jordan Clarkson (who combined for key second-half scoring). The reserves flipped a deficit in bench points, outscoring San Antonio’s backups 18-8 in the decisive fourth. Brown’s rotation decisions highlighted New York’s improved balance, boosting momentum for the season ahead.
- Wembanyama’s Emotional Night The Spurs’ star center came off the bench again due to his recent calf injury recovery, scoring 18 points in limited minutes. Tragically, Wembanyama learned of his grandmother’s passing earlier that day, visibly emotional in the postgame press conference. Despite the personal loss and a minus-18 rating on the floor, his performance underscored his bright future.
- Karl-Anthony Towns Battles Through Scare Towns appeared to tweak his knee late in the third quarter, briefly covering his face in concern on the bench. He returned to contribute 16 points and 11 rebounds overall, including a standout assist, and celebrated heartily as confetti fell.
- Cup Momentum: Who Benefits More? History suggests runners-up may gain longer-term boosts—last year’s finalist OKC won the NBA title, while champions have faced early playoff exits. The Knicks expressed newfound belief in their depth, while the young Spurs emphasized growth and bonding from the deep run.
This marks New York’s first trophy since 1973, adding mid-December intensity and hardware to a promising campaign.
#NBACup #KnicksChampions #EmiratesNBACup #JalenBrunsonMVP #Wemby #NYKvsSAS #NBANews
