Knicks Make 'Right' Decision On NBA Cup Championship Banner

Originally posted on The Spun | By Daniel Bates | Last updated Dec 17, 2025 12:47 PM ET

The New York Knicks took home their first trophy in 52 years with Tuesday night's win in the NBA Cup. But that doesn't mean that the franchise is putting it on-par with its other two championships.

The Knicks beat Victor Wembanyama and the Spurs 124-113 in the NBA Cup final behind 28 points from OG Anunoby and a 25 & 8 performance from In-Season Tournament MVP Jalen Brunson, who along with the team's bench helped New York overcome a 10-point third quarter deficit.

As proud as the Knicks were of their title though, it doesn't sound like they'll be making room for it in the rafters of their hallowed Madison Square Garden.

Dec 16, 2025; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) poses with the most valuable player trophy after victory over the San Antonio Spurs during the Emirates NBA Cup Final at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images© Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Knicks rule against hoisting NBA Cup banner

The news comes via ESPN NBA insider Shams Charania, who reported Wednesday: "The New York Knicks will not raise an NBA Cup championship banner at Madison Square Garden, sources tell ESPN. The Lakers and Bucks raised banners for NBA Cup titles over the last two years. Knicks will celebrate with home fans Friday."

New York hasn't won an NBA Finals since the 1972-73 season, so it's been a long time coming for for one of the league's most iconic brands.

But until they're able to seal the deal on the sport's biggest stage, there won't be any additional banners at MSG — which many of the team's fans agree with.

The New York Knicks will not raise an NBA Cup championship banner at Madison Square Garden, sources tell ESPN. The Lakers and Bucks raised banners for NBA Cup titles over the last two years. Knicks will celebrate with home fans Friday.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) December 17, 2025

Fans applaud 'right' decision

"This is the way," a user said.

"Raising the NBA Cup banner is embarrassing," Aaron J. Fentress claimed.

"Dumb. Of Course they should NOT raise a banner. Not a championship," Don Harris commented.

"And just like that, the Knicks became America’s team. Not all heroes wear capes," a fan posted.

"I love how much this is going to piss off Silver," Barstool's Eric Hubbs replied.

"agree with this decision. good/important stepping stone... but the ultimate prize remains unclaimed," Tommy Beer shared.

The Knicks are 18-7 on the year and figure to be one of the favorites out of the East along with the Pistons, Raptors and Celtics. Last season they lost to the Indiana Pacers in six games in the Eastern Conference Finals.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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