The 2025 NBA Cup concluded under the bright lights of T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas with the New York Knicks lifting the trophy after a hard-fought 124–116 victory over the San Antonio Spurs. In a tournament that showcased star power, depth, and rising talent, it was Knicks guard Jalen Brunsonwho emerged as the defining figure, earning NBA Cup MVP honors after a dominant week capped by another strong performance in the final.
From veteran leadership to young superstars making their presence felt, the NBA Cup delivered meaningful basketball with playoff intensity — and several players elevated their games on the league’s biggest midseason stage.
NBA Cup Final: Knicks 124, Spurs 116
Jalen Brunson (New York Knicks) – NBA Cup MVP
Brunson once again set the tone for New York in the championship game, finishing with 25 points on 11-of-27 shooting. While the efficiency wasn’t pristine, his control of tempo, poise in late possessions, and ability to draw defensive attention proved critical. Brunson’s tournament résumé was sealed earlier in the week, but his steady hand in the final validated the MVP selection.
OG Anunoby (New York Knicks)
Anunoby delivered his best offensive performance of the tournament when it mattered most:
• 28 points
• 10-of-17 shooting
• 9 rebounds
His physicality on both ends punished San Antonio’s wings, and his shot-making helped New York create separation whenever the Spurs threatened to rally.
Mitchell Robinson (New York Knicks) – Unsung Hero
While the box score won’t headline Robinson’s night, his impact was undeniable:
• 15 rebounds
• 10 offensive rebounds
Robinson’s relentless work on the glass generated crucial second-chance points and wore down San Antonio’s frontcourt, shifting momentum permanently in New York’s favor.
Karl-Anthony Towns (New York Knicks)
Towns provided balance and composure inside:
• 16 points
• 11 rebounds
His presence steadied the Knicks during key stretches, particularly when the game slowed in the second half.
Spurs Standouts in Defeat
Victor Wembanyama (San Antonio Spurs)
Wembanyama’s stat line in the final — 18 points, six rebounds, and six blocks — only partially captured his defensive dominance. His ability to erase shots and alter driving lanes forced the Knicks to constantly adjust.
Earlier in the tournament, Wembanyama delivered one of the most impactful performances of the NBA Cup:
• 22 points
• 9 rebounds
• 2 blocks
• 21 minutes played
After sitting out the entire first quarter due to minute restrictions, his presence completely changed the game. Opponents avoided the paint, perimeter defenders amped up pressure, and the Spurs’ defense fed off his rim protection.
Semifinal Spotlight: Spurs vs. Thunder
San Antonio’s semifinal victory over Oklahoma City showcased the team’s depth and balance. The Spurs featured four 20-point scorers, led by:
• Devin Vassell – 23 points
• Victor Wembanyama – 22 points
• Stephon Castle – 22 points
• De’Aaron Fox – 22 points
Oklahoma City was led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who scored 29 points on 12-of-23 shooting, though struggles from beyond the arc (1-of-7) and five turnovers proved costly. Jalen Williams added 17 points and four steals, but the Thunder couldn’t match San Antonio’s scoring balance.
Semifinal Spotlight: Knicks vs. Magic
Brunson’s MVP case was cemented in the semifinals with a masterclass performance against Orlando:
• 40 points
• 16-of-27 shooting
• 8 assists
• 4 rebounds
The Magic were led by Paolo Banchero with 25 points and eight rebounds, while Jalen Suggspoured in 26 points but was limited to just one point in the second half before exiting to the locker room in the fourth quarter.
Final Takeaway
The 2025 NBA Cup succeeded in what it set out to do: deliver high-stakes basketball, elevate star performances, and create meaningful competition in the heart of the season. The Knicks’ blend of toughness, rebounding, and guard play proved championship-worthy, while Jalen Brunson’s leadership and production made him the clear MVP.
For San Antonio, Victor Wembanyama’s continued dominance on both ends reinforced that the Spurs’ future is arriving faster than expected. As the NBA Cup continues to grow, this year’s tournament in Las Vegas set a new standard — one defined by intensity, depth, and stars rising when the spotlight was brightest.
