For the first time since 1973, the New York Knicks can legitimately celebrate winning something that matters.

The Knicks are NBA Cup champions, winning the league’s in-season tournament — and while some fans are debating whether it “counts,” the answer is simple: Yes. It absolutely does.

This wasn’t a made-up trophy by the Knicks. This was an NBA-created, league-wide tournament, officially sanctioned, marketed, televised, and competed for by every team. The Knicks didn’t bend the rules — they just won.

You Don’t Diminish the Winner Because You Don’t Like the Format

Critics want to downplay the NBA Cup because it’s new. But history tells us something important:
Every major sports tradition was once new.

The NBA introduced this tournament. The players competed under the same rules. And when the dust settled, the Knicks were standing.

That’s not luck — that’s execution.

One-Game Elimination Is Actually HARDER

Here’s where the conversation gets real.

Winning a one-game elimination tournament is arguably more complicated than winning a seven-game playoff series. Why?

• There’s no margin for error.
• One stormy night sends you home.
• Adjustments don’t get a second chance
• Underdogs have a real opportunity

Just ask the Oklahoma City Thunder — owners of the best record in the NBA at the time — who the San Antonio Spurs eliminated. That’s the nature of elimination basketball.

In contrast, a seven-game series gives the “better” team time to:

• Recover from bad games
• Make adjustments
• Lean on depth and star power

One-game tournaments don’t offer that luxury. You either show up that night, or you’re done.

The Best Team Doesn’t Always Win — The Best Team That Night Does

That’s why tournaments like the NCAA March Madness are so revered.

It’s not always about who’s the best on paper.
It’s about:

• Preparation
• Focus
• Mental toughness
• Execution in the moment

The Knicks did precisely that. They played the best basketball when it mattered, under pressure, with no safety net.

Context Matters: This Is Big for New York

For a franchise that hasn’t hoisted a traditional championship since 1973, this win isn’t just symbolic — it’s cultural. It matters to:

• The fan base
• The city
• The players
• The organization

Winning builds confidence, belief, and changes how teams see themselves.

And the Knicks earned this one.

Final Word

You don’t have to call it an NBA Finals championship to respect it.

The Knicks won the NBA Cup, the league’s third in-season tournament, in a format that punishes mistakes and rewards preparation. That counts.

So, whether you love the tournament or not, give credit where it’s due. Shout out to the New York Knicks. 🏆🗽