Last Updated on June 3, 2026 by Mat Diekhake

The New York Knicks are one of the NBA’s most iconic franchises, known for their passionate fan base and long history in the league. The team won its two NBA championships in the 1970s, capturing titles in 1970 and 1973 behind legendary players and memorable postseason runs. This article explores the New York Knicks’ championship history, including their title-winning seasons, NBA Finals appearances, and pursuit of future success.

The New York Knicks have won 2 NBA championships in franchise history. Here’s a breakdown of their championship seasons:

New York Knicks NBA Championships

🏆 1969-70 – Defeated the Los Angeles Lakers (4-3)
🏆 1972-73 – Defeated the Los Angeles Lakers (4-1)

Championship Details

1969-70 – Willis Reed’s Iconic Return

  • The Knicks finished with a 60-22 record, the best in the NBA.
  • Led by Willis Reed, Walt Frazier, Bill Bradley, Dave DeBusschere, and Dick Barnett.
  • Willis Reed won both the MVP and Finals MVP.
  • Game 7 vs. the Lakers: Reed, injured in Game 5, made a dramatic entrance and hit the first two shots of the game, inspiring the team.
  • Walt Frazier had one of the greatest Game 7 performances ever (36 points, 19 assists, 7 rebounds, 5 steals).

1972-73 – Revenge on the Lakers

  • The Knicks finished the season 57-25.
  • Key players: Willis Reed, Walt Frazier, Earl Monroe, Bill Bradley, and Dave DeBusschere.
  • Reed won his second Finals MVP, averaging 16.4 points and 9.2 rebounds.
  • The Knicks dominated the Lakers 4-1 in the Finals, avenging their loss to them in 1972.

Coach

  • Red Holzman led the Knicks to both championships.

The Knicks have reached the Finals 8 times, but their last championship came in 1973. They made the Finals in 1994 (with Patrick Ewing) and 1999 (led by Latrell Sprewell & Allan Houston) but lost both times.