The 2025 Emirates NBA Cup Final is set, and basketball fans are in for a treat. The New York Knicks will clash with the San Antonio Spurs on Tuesday, December 16th at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Two storied franchises with identical 18-7 records will battle for the championship trophy in what promises to be an instant classic.
The Road to Las Vegas
Both teams have earned their spot in this championship game through impressive performances in the knockout rounds. The Knicks dismantled the Orlando Magic 132-120 in the semifinal, with Jalen Brunson delivering a spectacular 40-point masterclass. New York has won nine of their last ten games, showcasing the cohesion and depth that first-year head coach Mike Brown has cultivated.
The Spurs took an even more dramatic path, knocking off the defending NBA champions Oklahoma City Thunder 111-109 in a thrilling semifinal. That victory snapped the Thunder’s 16-game winning streak and announced to the league that San Antonio is a legitimate force. Victor Wembanyama’s return from a 12-game absence made the difference, as the generational talent contributed 22 points, 9 rebounds, and 2 blocks.
Key Players to Watch
This matchup features some of the most compelling individual talents in basketball today.
Jalen Brunson enters as the favorite for NBA Cup MVP honors. The Knicks captain is averaging 28.3 points and 6.3 assists per game this season, and his playoff-level performances in Las Vegas have elevated his status among the league’s elite point guards. His footwork, mid-range game, and clutch shotmaking make him nearly impossible to contain. The Las Vegas crowd chanted MVP during his semifinal performance, and another dominant outing could cement his case.
Victor Wembanyama presents the most unique challenge in basketball. At 7-foot-4 with guard skills, the sophomore sensation is averaging 26.2 points, 12.9 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 3.6 blocks per game when healthy. His rim protection alters everything around the basket, while his offensive versatility creates mismatches that no team can solve. Despite missing significant time, his return has immediately elevated the Spurs to championship contenders.
Karl-Anthony Towns will be crucial for New York’s chances. The big man is posting 22.1 points and 12.0 rebounds per game while stretching the floor with his shooting. His battle against Wembanyama in the paint will be one of the most intriguing individual matchups of the game.
De’Aaron Fox has been sensational since joining San Antonio. The explosive guard is averaging 24.0 points and 6.3 assists, providing the speed and playmaking the Spurs have lacked for years. His ability to attack in transition and finish at the rim complements Wembanyama perfectly.
Stephon Castle has emerged as a breakout star this season. The young guard is posting 18.2 points and 7.4 assists per game while showing remarkable poise for his age. His 30-point explosion against the Lakers demonstrated he can carry the scoring load when needed.
Supporting casts will also play vital roles. Josh Hart, Mikal Bridges, and OG Anunoby give the Knicks elite depth and defensive versatility. Luke Kornet and the Spurs bench have proven they can compete at the highest level during Wembanyama’s absence.
Matchup Analysis
The Knicks enter as slight favorites at -2.5 points, and the betting markets reflect how evenly matched these teams are. New York’s advantage lies in their experience and depth. Last season’s Conference Finals run gave this core valuable playoff experience, and their bench can maintain leads when starters rest.
San Antonio’s advantage is Wembanyama. There is simply no defensive answer for his combination of size, skill, and shot-blocking ability. If he dominates both ends of the floor, the Spurs become nearly impossible to beat.
The Brunson versus Spurs guards matchup will be fascinating. Can Fox and Castle disrupt the Knicks captain’s rhythm with their length and athleticism? Or will Brunson’s craftiness and experience prove too much for the young San Antonio backcourt?
Coaching will also matter. Mike Brown’s system has transformed the Knicks into a more fluid offensive team. Mitch Johnson has instilled a demanding culture that has the Spurs playing with championship intensity. Both coaches have made excellent adjustments throughout the tournament.
Prediction and Final Score
This game will come down to the final minutes. Both teams have the talent and composure to execute in crunch time, setting up a dramatic finish in Las Vegas.
The difference will be Wembanyama’s two-way impact. While Brunson may have the better individual game offensively, Wembanyama’s rim protection will force the Knicks into difficult shots late in the contest. His ability to alter possessions on defense while creating easy buckets on offense gives San Antonio the edge.
Expect Fox to match Brunson’s scoring output, neutralizing the Knicks’ biggest advantage. Castle will provide crucial secondary creation, and the Spurs’ defensive intensity will frustrate New York’s supporting cast.
Final Score Prediction: Spurs 116, Knicks 112
Wembanyama finishes with 28 points, 14 rebounds, and 5 blocks, earning NBA Cup MVP honors. Fox adds 26 points and 7 assists in a complete performance. Brunson scores 35 points in a losing effort, while Towns battles to 20 points and 10 rebounds against Wembanyama’s length.
The Spurs capture the 2025 NBA Cup, signaling their return to championship relevance and establishing Wembanyama as the face of the league’s next era.
