Story perspectives

Knicks End 53-Year Drought, Brunson 45, Danhausen Curses Lifted

6/15/2026

Summary

Knicks Win Championship

New York Knicks won the NBA championship on June 13, 2026, beating the San Antonio Spurs 94-90 in Game 5, ending a 53-year drought.
Jalen Brunson (Knicks guard) was named Finals MVP after scoring a franchise-record 45 points.
WWE star Danhausen said he lifted a curse on ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith, will appear at the parade and in a documentary, and will headline a Main Event at Madison Square Garden on July 18.

Summary

Danhausen Crowned King

Danhausen posted on Twitter after his victory, proclaiming himself “king of New York” and demanding a statue, mural, parade and balloon.
Fans across New York embraced the “uncursed” storyline, flooding social media with memes and celebratory posts.
The viral buzz led WWE to schedule Danhausen’s first ESPN appearance for the Sunday after the championship win.
Sports commentators said the mix of basketball and wrestling culture sparked extensive online discussion.

History

Historical Context

After losing the 1972 Finals to Los Angeles, the New York Knicks reversed the outcome in 1973, defeating the Lakers 4-1 to claim their second NBA championship. Center Willis Reed earned Finals MVP as the team improved on its 1970 title win, and the 1973 victory remained the Knicks’ last championship until 2026.

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Knicks Win Championship

New York Knicks won the NBA championship on June 13, 2026, beating the San Antonio Spurs 94-90 in Game 5, ending a 53-year drought.
Jalen Brunson (Knicks guard) was named Finals MVP after scoring a franchise-record 45 points.
WWE star Danhausen said he lifted a curse on ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith, will appear at the parade and in a documentary, and will headline a Main Event at Madison Square Garden on July 18.

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