New York Knicks coach Mike Brown believes there are plenty of benefits to playing for and winning the midseason NBA Cup.

For the first time since eliminating New York in last season’s Eastern Conference finals, the Indiana Pacers square off against their biggest rivals outside the

The Knicks’ refusal to raise an NBA Cup banner undermines the achievement, disrespects fans, and hurts the league’s push to legitimize the in-season tournament.

Moreover, the cup run highlighted this team's growing ability to stay composed, play collectively and overcome adversity in high-pressure moments. For Hall of Famer, Reggie Miller, this triumph only doubles down on his belief that the Knicks can finally be trusted when the 2026 playoffs arrive and represent the East in the 2026 NBA Finals.

The NBA saw a surprising move as the New York Knicks declined to raise their NBA Cup banner. The team prioritized a championship run. Meanwhile, Ja Mo

Aside from the fact that getting to the Finals and winning the title isn't guaranteed, retired forward Chandler Parsons also explained that if the Knicks don't raise a banner for their NBA Cup win, they will be sending a wrong message to the league because it appears like they are trying to undervalue the success that the tournament has achieved.

Confetti was falling as Jalen Brunson was named the NBA Cup MVP, and Karl-Anthony Towns was lifting the trophy. And then Hart went off the rails. As Towns lifted the trophy, Hart apparently shoved his thumb straight up Brunson’s backside on live television.