This day in NY sports history

THIS DAY IN NY SPORTS HISTORY

Thursday, May 10, 1973

Reed leads Knicks to second title

After serving mostly as an inspiration in the clinching game of the Knicks' 1970 title, Willis Reed had a more tangible effect on their second. The center had 18 points, 12 rebounds and seven assists in leading the Knicks over the Lakers, 102-93, in Game 5 of the Finals at the L.A. Forum. The Knicks, 57-25 that season, won four straight after dropping the first game of the series. Earl Monroe, whom the Knicks had acquired the year before, scored 23 points and Bill Bradley 20. Gail Goodrich led the Lakers with 28 and Wilt Chamberlain had 23. After trailing by two at halftime, the Knicks erupted to take a 71-59 lead in the third quarter and held on.