New York Knicks win NBA championship for third time in history

The New York Knicks became NBA champions for the third time in franchise history on Saturday, beating the San Antonio Spurs 94-90 on the road in Game 5 of the Finals to clinch the series 4-1.

The Knicks trailed for most of the game, falling behind by 16 points in the first half. However, they mounted a comeback in the second half of the fourth quarter, taking the lead and holding on for the win.

Jalen Brunson was named Finals MVP after scoring 45 points. Mikal Bridges added 14 points, and Josh Hart recorded 13 points and 11 rebounds.

For the Spurs, reserve Dylan Harper led with 25 points, while Victor Wembanyama posted 19 points and 14 rebounds.

The Knicks previously won titles in 1970 and 1973, and last appeared in the Finals in 1999. The Spurs had not been to the Finals since 2014, when they last won the championship. Knicks head coach Mike Brown earned his fifth NBA title, having previously won four as an assistant. Spurs head coach Mitch Johnson, a former player for VEF Rīga, was in his first Finals appearance. Kristaps Porziņģis also began his NBA career with the Knicks.