OG Anunoby emphasized the importance of preparation and mindset after the New York Knicks defeated the San Antonio Spurs 124-113 to capture the NBA Cup at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
“I just felt like wearing clothes today. I normally wear my Skechers. I’m still wearing my Skechers shoes, but yeah, I wore some real clothes,” Anunoby said when asked about his pregame focus and attire.
The forward highlighted the significance of winning in Las Vegas. “People look at the town differently when they’re winning here. Always nice to win wherever we are…especially special today for this cup,” he said.
Anunoby described the NBA Cup as a momentum builder for the team. “It was like a good test for us, mid-season, and we beat a really good team. Good momentum, stuff we can take away, good and bad…good learning experience for us,” he explained.
The Knicks’ defense drew praise from Anunoby, who stressed its impact on the team’s outlook. “Just something we can carry over. We played a really good team, and things that work tonight, like effort and communicating, will always work. Good momentum and something to learn from,” he said.
Anunoby also reflected on the team’s resilience. “I think we’re just a mentally tough team that always steps up to the challenge. Our coaches challenge us, and we go out there, respond, execute what we go over every day in practice and on film,” he said.
When asked about confidence and individual goals, Anunoby noted the value of performing on a big stage. “Every game I want to show that, and it helps when we win games. Doing it on this stage can only help, and the more we win, the more impact we have on both sides,” he added.
Anunoby finished with 28 points, leading New York alongside Jalen Brunson, who scored 25 and earned NBA Cup MVP honors. The Knicks erased a second-half deficit, turning a tight contest into a 100-95 lead with a decisive 13-1 run in the third quarter.
New York dominated the glass 59-42 and scored 56 points in the paint, with Mitchell Robinson grabbing 15 rebounds in just 18 minutes, including 10 offensive boards. Karl-Anthony Towns contributed 16 points and 11 rebounds despite a calf issue that sidelined him briefly.
The NBA Cup victory does not count toward regular-season standings, leaving both teams at 18-7 atop their divisions. The Knicks travel to Indiana on Thursday, while the Spurs return home to host Washington.
