LAS VEGAS — The New York Knicks are preparing to face the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA Finals, starting tonight.

Despite being underdogs, the Knicks’ chances of ending their 53-year championship drought seem promising. Bettors are divided, with both teams receiving similar action at major sportsbooks. The Spurs are slightly favored, but the odds are close. The Knicks have been dominant in the Eastern Conference, winning 11 straight games.

However, questions remain about whether their success is due to weaker competition. The finals could be a challenge for sportsbooks, as both outcomes could result in losses.

Elsewhere in sports:

– The U.S. government granted a visa to Woodensky Pierre, the only member of Haiti’s national soccer team living in the Caribbean country. He was awaiting permission to travel for the World Cup. Thecieux Jeanty, Haiti’s soccer federation spokesperson, said Pierre is scheduled to travel to Florida on Tuesday. Teammates arrived last week to start preparing. This is only the second time Haiti has qualified for the World Cup.