By Matija Šerić
Statements after the NBA Cup final clearly show how much winning this tournament means to the entire Knicks organization. “It was a long time coming for this city,” said team captain Jalen Brunson, who was named the NBA Cup MVP, after the victory. “We didn’t just want to win; we wanted to bring respect back to New York.” Respect from others was something the team had been lacking in recent years.
The Victory Brought the Knicks Confidence for Bigger Things
Alongside MVP Brunson, OG Anunoby was a key player for New York, excelling both in the paint and in defense during offense. He often blocked Wembanyama and made five three-pointers, some of which were crucial. Anunoby described the NBA Cup as a way to gain momentum for the team: “It was a good test for us mid-season, and we beat a really good team. Good momentum, things we can carry with us, both good and bad… a great learning opportunity for us,” he explained. The versatile British player also highlighted the team’s resilience: “I think we’re a mentally strong team that always rises to the challenge. Our coaches challenge us, and we go out on the court, respond, and execute what we go through every day in training and while watching game footage,” added Anunoby.
Coach Mike Brown stated: “This is a tournament that, after a while, becomes a single-elimination game. There is pressure in every game if you expect to be what you think you are. When you succeed, it creates confidence throughout the entire organization.” Each player received over $500,000 in bonuses for winning the NBA Cup. Stars decided to share part of that money with the coaching staff, including those not in the public spotlight. Even though everyone already has multi-million-dollar salaries, this gesture brought happiness to those around them who truly matter.
Knicks trophy celebration
The “Champion’s Curse”
After this major mid-season success, the logical question is how far the Knicks can go in the NBA playoffs this season. Pessimists might say “not far.” The Lakers had a 14-9 record when they won the 2023 NBA Cup but then lost seven of their next ten games. Ultimately, they were eliminated in the first round by Denver. Last season, the Bucks had a 14-11 record before winning the Cup, then dropped to 5th place in the conference. Later, they were eliminated in the first round by the Pacers, who almost won the NBA title. Still, the superstition that the NBA Cup champion will face bad luck has some basis. Giannis Antetokounmpo noted last year after winning the Cup: “It definitely feels strange. Usually, when you lift the trophy, that’s it. You have your break, time to rest, time for family.” The season goes on.
Mike Brown interview after the final
Knicks Dream of an NBA Finals Spot
The Knicks haven’t slowed down in the league. In four games after the final, they have a 2-2 record, beating the Pacers and Heat while losing to Philadelphia and Minnesota. New York currently holds 2nd place in the Eastern Conference with a 20-9 record. Detroit leads with 24-6. If the Knicks avoid serious injuries, they should finish in the top 3–4 of the East, giving them a good starting position for the playoffs. The competition in the East is generally weaker than in the West. Last year, they were eliminated only in the conference finals by Indiana 4-2.
This year, they are playing at a higher level, and dreaming of the NBA Finals is realistic. Last year, coach Tom Thibodeau led the team but did not have enough capacity to fully utilize the roster’s potential. Mike Brown seems capable of this, as he has brought winning energy and a big-game mentality, and the first trophy is already here. After the NBA Cup final, Brown stated that winning the tournament “brought confidence to everyone in the organization and that it can push you when the real moment comes” (clearly referring to the playoffs).
Big Ambitions Are Possible
Today, the Knicks can confidently build a team capable of competing against even stronger squads like Oklahoma City or Denver in a potential NBA Finals. Many predict that those teams would beat New York in five or six games. But basketball isn’t a game of statistics—it’s full of comebacks and surprises. The Knicks have the best roster in both offense and defense in the East, and arguably the best coach, so their path to great achievements seems open. Of course, the season is long, and by May and June, there are plenty of obstacles to overcome.
