This year’s NBA Finals are an attempt for both sides to revive their dynastic franchises. The Nova Knicks vs. Area 51 is going to be a matchup that will etch its way into NBA history.

For the Knicks, this is their first time making the Finals since 1999. The Knicks have not been NBA champions since 1973, that’s over 50 years! Led by the Villanova trio (hence the name Nova Knicks) of Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart, and Mikal Bridges, the NCAA title winners look to continue their championship success at the professional level. Karl-Anthony Towns (KAT) and OG Anunoby are the other two Knicks starters who look to perform at the “Mecca of Basketball,” Madison Square Garden. The Knicks look to continue their 11-game playoff win streak in a tough best-of-seven series against the Spurs. 

The Spurs, on the other hand, made the finals twelve years ago in 2014, where they defeated the Miami Heat. They earned the nickname “Area 51” because of the duo of young stars Victor Wembanyama and Stephon Castle (their numbers combine to form 51). Wembanyama is also referred to as the alien because he combines a guard-like play style with his extreme height and defensive dominance. The Spurs certainly do not have an 11-game playoff, but they just took down the defending champions, the Oklahoma City Thunder. 

Be sure to tune into Game 1 tonight, Wednesday, June 3, as the Spurs will start the series at home at Frost Bank Center. Games 2, 5, and 7 will also be in San Antonio, and Games 3, 4, and 6 will be in New York.

Will the Knicks continue their historic playoff run, or use their out-of-this-world style of play to raise the trophy?