Knicks Win The 2025 Emirates NBA Cup Championship
The New York Knicks defeated the San Antonio Spurs 124–113 in Las Vegas to win the third NBA Emirates Cup. Led by Jalen Brunson, New York’s depth and late-game execution proved too much, while the tournament once again delivered high-stakes, playoff-style basketball during the regular season.
This marked the third year of the NBA’s Emirates Cup, and once again the league proved the concept works. The in-season tournament has successfully injected urgency into the regular season, giving fans playoff-level intensity well before April. A major driver of that intensity is the prize money: each player on the championship roster earns roughly $530,933, runner-ups receive $212,373, semifinalists take home $106,187, and quarterfinalists earn $53,093.
For star players, the money may be secondary, but for bench players and those on minimum contracts, the stakes are very real. That financial incentive has helped elevate competition during a portion of the season often impacted by load management and rest days.
This year’s championship matchup took place in Las Vegas, featuring the San Antonio Spurs and the New York Knicks. Spurs rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama showed up for the Vegas crowd, scoring 18 points in 25 minutes while making his presence felt on both ends of the floor. The game stayed close and competitive throughout, but New York’s depth ultimately proved to be the difference.
Led by Jalen Brunson, the Knicks leaned on their offensive balance and late-game execution, pulling away in the final two minutes to secure a 124–113 victory. With multiple scoring options and strong defensive stops down the stretch, New York captured the third edition of the Emirates Cup.
From the league’s perspective, the tournament continues to be a smart move. It raises the level of play during the middle of the season, rewards players beyond just the stars, and gives fans a destination event built around meaningful basketball. For Knicks fans, the celebration doesn’t last long, now the focus shifts to sustaining momentum and making a serious NBA playoff run.
Congratulations to the Knicks. The real work starts now.