American NBA team based in Oklahoma City
The Knicks have clinched their first NBA title in 53 years after defeating the Spurs in five games. Viewership peaked at 33 million for Game 5, making this the most-watched NBA Finals since 1998. The series averaged 20.6 million viewers, the best since ABC/ESPN began covering the Finals in 2003.
The Knicks have won the 2026 NBA Finals, ending a 53-year title drought. Across Manhattan, fans celebrate with a parade; meanwhile, banners at City Hall incorrectly display Patrick Ewing’s retired No. 33 for Dillon Jones, who wore No. 1 in games this season. The error prompts scrutiny of roster data and ceremony planning.
The New York Knicks have won the NBA title and will visit the White House. Dolan says the team has accepted an invitation from President Trump and will determine details soon. The visit follows a season marked by political controversy surrounding White House visits by champions.
San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama has agreed to a five-year, $252 million rookie maximum extension with a player option in the fifth season, according to ESPN and confirmed by the Spurs and multiple outlets. The deal preserves cap flexibility for the team while keeping the promising rookie in San Antonio. The extension follows a dramatic rise from a 22-win season to a 62-win Finals run.
LeBron James has joined the Philadelphia 76ers for a two-year, $8 million deal, beginning his record-extending 24th NBA season. He has stated he is not chasing money or family, but aims to help the Sixers win a championship and energize a new fan base.
Brandon Clarke has died at a Los Angeles area home on May 11, with the medical examiner listing an accidental death. The combined effects of multiple prescription medications are noted as a significant contributing factor; a full autopsy report will follow. Clarke spent seven seasons with the Memphis Grizzlies after Gonzaga, averaging 10.2 points and 5.5 rebounds per game.
The Knicks will host the 76ers on Oct. 20 to raise their 2023-24 championship banner, then begin the NBA Cup schedule with a group-stage game against Philadelphia in New York. The league has released a partial schedule, with key Christmas and opening-night matchups revealed and full details due Thursday.
Russell Westbrook has announced his retirement after an 18-year career that included a 2016-17 MVP season, 42 triple-doubles in a season, and stints with several teams, including the Thunder, Rockets, Wizards, Lakers, Clippers, Nuggets and Kings. The farewell video, narrated by Michael B. Jordan, marks the end of an era.
The Cavaliers have secured a multi-year deal with James Harden, including a player option for 2028-29 and a trade kicker, after Harden declined a $42.3 million option earlier this summer. The move follows Cleveland’s recent trades, including acquiring Peyton Watson from Denver. Harden has averaged 20.5 points and 7.7 assists in 26 games for Cleveland this season, and his career marks span 1,221 games across multiple teams.