HeadlinesBriefing favicon HeadlinesBriefing.com

OG Anunoby's Clutch Play Sparks New York Knicks' NBA Title

BBC Sport •
×

The New York Knicks ended a 53-year drought by defeating the San Antonio Spurs 4-1 in the 2026 NBA Finals. OG Anunoby secured a legendary game-winner in game four, palming a rebound into the basket to win 107-106. This victory marks the first finals win since 1973 for the franchise.

Anunoby played a massive role this season, starting 84 of 101 matches. During the play-offs, he ranked second on the team in points, assists, blocks, and steals per game. While Jalen Brunson took home the Finals MVP, Anunoby provided the clutch performance that generated over three billion social media views for game four.

This championship arrives as the NBA plans an independent European league by October 2027. The league intends to place franchises in London and Manchester to tap into the UK market. Anunoby, a former minority owner of the London Lions, believes this expansion will provide necessary exposure for young British talent.

New York dominated the final stretch of the season, winning 15 of their last 16 games. The series became the most-watched on ESPN in 28 years. Anunoby now joins an elite group of winners, having previously won a title with the Toronto Raptors in 2019.