Spurs Reach NBA Finals but Lose Series to Knicks 4-1

The San Antonio Spurs lost the NBA Finals series to the New York Knicks 4-1 after leading by double digits in each game. The Knicks secured their first championship in 53 years. A large tifo reading "BELIEVE" was displayed at Frost Bank Center before Game 5. The Spurs spent more time ahead by double digits than the Knicks did in the series.

Wembanyama said the experience was valuable for the team. Keldon Johnson was seen crying while greeting teammates after the final game. Coach Mitch Johnson told the team to feel all emotions from the loss. He said competitiveness requires experiencing both success and failure.

The series showed the Spurs lacked a reliable stretch big to play opposite Wembanyama. They also needed a backup center who could play more than 10 minutes per game. Devin Vassell said the team will work to return to the Finals with a different result. The Spurs reached the series after defeating the Trail Blazers, Minnesota Timberwolves and Oklahoma City Thunder.