WASHINGTON, June 14 (Xinhua) -- The New York Knicks ended a 53-year wait for an NBA championship on Saturday, defeating the San Antonio Spurs 94-90 on the road in Game 5 of the 2025-26 NBA Finals to clinch the series 4-1.

Jalen Brunson had a game-high 45 points, setting a Knicks record for points in an NBA Finals game. He was named the Finals Most Valuable Player with an average of 32.6 points, 4.2 rebounds and 4.6 assists.

"I've got no words," Brunson said. "I'm in awe. Whenever someone counts us out, we find a way to come back and do something about it."

The Knicks, who had previously lifted the trophy in 1970 and 1973, arrived in San Antonio with a chance to close out the series after producing a dramatic comeback victory in Game 4 in New York. Trailing by as many as 29 points, they completed the most remarkable comeback in NBA Finals history when OG Anunoby's tip-in basket secured a 107-106 win.

Back on the Spurs' home court, Victor Wembanyama showed his determination from the tip-off, recording a string of blocks and dunks to help the Spurs build an early advantage. The Knicks were held to just 13 points in the first quarter and trailed by 10 entering the second.

New York gradually found its offensive rhythm and cut the deficit to five points before halftime, but suffered a setback early in the third quarter when center Karl-Anthony Towns picked up his fourth foul and was forced to the bench, allowing the Spurs to stretch their lead back into double digits. Brunson, however, responded with 14 points in the quarter to keep the Knicks within striking distance.

A free throw by Stephon Castle gave San Antonio an 81-71 lead early in the fourth quarter, but Brunson once again took control. The guard scored repeatedly and led a decisive Knicks rally as the Spurs struggled in offense.

In the closing moments, Anunoby's free throw put New York ahead 94-90. Wembanyama's three-pointer attempt on the final possession missed the mark, sealing the Knicks' championship.

With thousands of traveling Knicks fans filling a large portion of the arena and franchise legends, including Patrick Ewing, the Knicks gathered at center court to celebrate their long-awaited title.

Josh Hart contributed a double-double of 13 points and 11 rebounds for New York, while Anunoby added 11 points and eight rebounds.

For the Spurs, Wembanyama posted 19 points, 14 rebounds and five blocks. Rookie Dylan Harper led the team with 25 points while adding five rebounds and four assists. Starting point guard De'Aaron Fox scored seven points but shot just 3-for-15 from the field.

"This is the biggest lesson of my life, the biggest learning moment," Wembanyama said after the defeat.

"I can't tell exactly what the lesson is, but we're learning," he added. ■