The 2025-26 NBA season has officially concluded, and for the New York Knicks, it ended in euphoric fashion with their first NBA championship in 53 years. After a dramatic and grueling playoff journey, the Knicks triumphed over the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA Finals with a 4-1 series victory. As the dust settles, it’s time to grade the individual performances of the players and head coach Mike Brown.
Jalen Brunson earned an A++ for his exceptional leadership, culminating in a Finals MVP award. Averaging 26 points and seven assists during the regular season and leading the team to 53 wins, Brunson’s playoff performance was historic, including a dominant scoring display in the NBA Finals. His emergence as the savior the Knicks craved solidifies his place in franchise history.
Karl-Anthony Towns also received an A+ for overcoming early-season role uncertainty to deliver his best defensive campaign. Towns was instrumental in turning around the first-round series against the Hawks, outperforming Joel Embiid, and controlling the tempo of the Finals. His dominance over Victor Wembanyama in crucial early Finals games was a turning point for the championship run.
OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges both garnered A+ grades. Anunoby’s elite two-way play all season, coupled with his 49 percent three-point shooting in the playoffs and a clutch championship-sealing tip-in, earned him high marks. Bridges proved his readiness for big moments, averaging 19 points on 68 percent effective field goal rate in the Conference Finals and delivering key shooting performances in the Finals while locking down opposing guards.
Josh Hart also earned an A+ for his consistent all-around hustle and clutch performances. His 26-point, five-three-pointer outing in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals and his 40 percent three-point shooting in the NBA Finals were vital contributions.
Mitchell Robinson received an A for his pivotal role in the championship chase. He stepped up against tough competition when Towns was in foul trouble and secured a crucial offensive rebound in Game 5 that helped seal the victory. Despite some lowlights and free-throw struggles, his overall impact was undeniable.
Miles McBride received a B, with his rhythm hampered by injuries. When healthy, he performed to expectations with his shooting and defense, but a muted playoff showing, particularly in the Finals, left his individual note sour, though his contribution to the championship should not be dismissed.
Landry Shamet earned an A for shaking off injury and a mid-postseason benching to help orchestrate a historic comeback in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals. His shooting carried into the NBA Finals, providing crucial baskets.
Jose Alvarado received an A for his readiness to step up despite limited playoff minutes. His two massive shots in Game 4 of the NBA Finals during their comeback cemented his legendary status among Knicks fans.
Jordan Clarkson received an A- for reinventing himself after a season of inconsistency. He worked his way back into the rotation through defense and veteran steadiness, proving key in the postseason.
Tyler Kolek and Mohamed Diawara both earned B+ grades. Kolek showed promise with masterful games on Christmas and in the NBA Cup, indicating he’s ready for future opportunities. Diawara displayed endless potential in the regular season and is expected to be a significant part of the Knicks’ future plans.
Ariel Hukporti received an A- for stepping up when called upon in the regular season and delivering a massive block in the clinching game of the NBA Finals, helping to hold down the Knicks’ defense.
Head Coach Mike Brown received an A+ for achieving the ultimate goal in his first year under enormous expectations. Hired to foster a more collaborative and dynamic offense, his primary achievement was getting the Knicks over the championship hump, a task he accomplished with little room for error.
