For the first time in 53 years, the New York Knicks are NBA champions. To defeat Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs, it required a full group effort from the never-say-die Knicks.
Following their championship victory in Game 5, Knicks players recalled the cost of the trade to acquire Mikal Bridges. Notably, the Knicks traded four first-round picks to acquire the former Villanova star from the Brooklyn Nets.
At the time, the blockbuster deal was considered by many to be a massive overpay for the two-way forward.
After securing the Larry O’Brien trophy, the Knicks made it clear they believe Bridges was worth the cost.
“F*** them picks! Look what we got,” said Knicks center Ariel Hukporti, pointing at Mikal Bridges. “We got him out of Brooklyn and look at him now. He’s a champion. Everyone doubted. But f*** them picks.”
Mikal Bridges Enjoyed a Solid Postseason
GettyMikal Bridges was fourth in team scoring this postseason
Throughout the Knicks’ dominant championship run, Bridges was a rock steady presence in the lineup.
He averaged 13.5 points, 3.2 rebounds, 2.7 assists and one steal across 19 playoff games. Among the Knicks starters, only OG Anunoby (56.1 percent) shot a higher field goal percentage than Bridges (55.9 percent).
Bridges recorded nine playoff games with 15+ points, the fourth-most among Knicks players this postseason.
Bridges thrived as a defensive stopper in this series, too.
Knicks Will Hold Championship Parade on June 18
GettyNew York City will hold a Knicks championship parade on June 18
New York City mayor Zohran Mamdani knows Knicks fans have been waiting a long time for a parade and took very little time in announcing the upcoming celebration.
“Parade. Thursday. Manhattan,” Mamdani posted on X shortly after the Knicks defeated the San Antonio Spurs 94-90 in Game 5 of the NBA Finals to win the third championship in franchise history and first since 1973.
More specific information, such as the parade route, ceremony details, and media RSVP guidelines, will be made public on Sunday, according to a statement from the city. The ceremony at City Hall will include awarding keys to the city.
“For more than 50 years, New Yorkers have waited for this moment,” Mamdani said. “Through near misses, heartbreak and a hope that every year could be our year, this city never stopped believing in the Knicks. ”
“New Yorkers have cheered for our team from packed living rooms in the Bronx to watch parties in Brooklyn, from bars in Queens to Staten Island to Manhattan, and Madison Square Garden itself,” he added. “Now it’s time for our city to celebrate together. Bing bong.”
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