The Ultimate Snub: Why the Knicks Said NO to an NBA Cup Banner at MSG

The New York Knicks secured the 2025 NBA Cup title, defeating the San Antonio Spurs in a thrilling final. Nevertheless, the victory’s recognition will not include a commemorative championship banner raised at Madison Square Garden (MSG). This Knicks organizational decision bucks the recent NBA Cup tradition set by previous winners. Accordingly, the Los Angeles Lakers and the Milwaukee Bucks both elected to hang Knicks championship banners in their respective home arenas, Crypto.com Arena and Fiserv Forum. However, the Knicks organization appears focused on a more coveted prize. Their choice signals an aggressive commitment to winning the true NBA championship in June. This decision reflects the current league-wide NBA Cup perception.

The Trophy Is Home, But the Rafters Remain Bare

The New York Knicks successfully rallied against the Spurs to win the first NBA Cup final in franchise history. Superstar Jalen Brunson earned Tournament MVP honors following the hard-fought game. During the postgame celebration, Coach Mike Brown enthusiastically referenced the possibility of hanging a Madison Square Garden Knicks banner. “The most positive is being able to hang a banner up in MSG,” Brown stated emphatically during the Dec. 16 press conference. Subsequently, the franchise made an organizational decision to forgo the symbolic championship recognition. A source indicated the Knicks prioritize bigger goals, specifically the Larry O’Brien trophy. Their focus is solely on the NBA Cup vs. NBA Finals comparison.

Championship Legacy

This Knicks NBA Cup decision has fueled significant debate about the NBA Cup trophy’s significance. Star players offered mixed player reactions to the news, as detailed in the ESPN report. Karl-Anthony Towns stated the NBA Cup meaning remains “special.” Conversely, Josh Hart admitted someone would be “mad whatever we do.” Point guard Jalen Brunson immediately shot down any extravagant celebrations. “I don’t think we’re having a parade,” Brunson told reporters, reflecting the locker room reaction. His comments highlight a deeper focus on the NBA regular season grind. The team will celebrate the Knicks winning the NBA Cup title during its Friday, Dec. 19 Knicks home game against the Philadelphia 76ers.

The Knicks last added a new banner after the 1998–99 Knicks season for their title as Eastern Conference champions. Therefore, the empty space high above the MSG court conveys a powerful message. This surprising refusal immediately creates a powerful narrative. The Knicks are not celebrating a mid-season title. This decision showcases their ambition for a deeper Knicks banner history. They are entirely dedicated to achieving a full Knicks championship legacy. This NBA Cup controversy ultimately demonstrates the team’s unrelenting focus on the ultimate prize and Knicks season priorities.