Knicks' Brunson seals Finals MVP honors with 45 points in Game 5

SAN ANTONIO -- Thanks to a performance for the ages, Jalen Brunsonled the New York Knicks to their first NBA championship in 53 years and also earned Finals MVP honors.

Brunson was the unanimous choice among 11 voters after scoring 45 points in the Knicks' 94-90 title-clinching victory over the San Antonio Spurs in Game 5 on Saturday night.

"It's everything we ever dreamed of," Brunson said to ESPN's Ernie Johnson, while standing next to his father on the stage after accepting the Bill Russell Trophy.

"It's why I came to New York."

Brunson carried the Knicks across the finish line with a historic performance. He became one of four players, joining Michael Jordan, Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bob Pettit, to score at least 45 points in a closeout game in the NBA Finals.

That was more than enough for Brunson to erase any doubts about who would be winning the top individual honor from this series.

"Resilient, mentally tough ... no matter if we're down, [he stays] in attack mode and plays to the end," said OG Anunoby, who was Brunson's competition for the award until his remarkable showing in Game 5.

"He's an amazing player and it showed. [He] showed the world tonight."

Brunson, who struggled from the floor earlier in the series, shot 14 for 27 in Game 5, including going 4-for-7 from 3-point range and 13-for-15 from the foul line.

He scored 15 points in the fourth quarter, helping the Knicks overcome a seven-point deficit to pull away and end the franchise's championship drought.

"Words can't describe it but I'll say I put a lot of time and effort into trying to be the best player I can be to try and help a team win," Brunson said. "Just really thankful to have the organization, the coaching staff, my teammates, to have my back every single day. I think that means the most to me. And my family."

Saturday's title victory caps a remarkable four years since Brunson signed with the Knicks as a free agent in 2022. When he signed a four-year, $104 million contract after leaving the Dallas Mavericks as a free agent, many felt the Knicks overpaid him.

Instead, it has turned into one of the best free agent signings in NBA history. Before Brunson's arrival, the Knicks had won one playoff series in 21 seasons. In his four years with the Knicks, they have won at least one series in each of the past four seasons.

"He understands what winning is about," Knicks coach Mike Brown said. "Now when you take his play into account, it's off the charts, man. Brunson ... he is him, man. When it comes to New York basketball, he is freaking him."br/]