The New York Knicks’ impressive winning streak has come to an end, marking the start of intense NBA Finals action. In a high-stakes Game 3, witnessed by a New York crowd including President Trump and numerous celebrities, the San Antonio Spurs emerged victorious. The final score was 115-111, reducing their series deficit to 2-1. This win came despite the fiercely challenging atmosphere at Madison Square Garden.
The Spurs managed to lead by up to 12 points in the first half, but saw their advantage dwindle before halftime. The Knicks then took a seven-point lead, fueled by pivotal contributions from OG Anunoby and Josh Hart, despite a slow shooting start from star guard Jalen Brunson. However, Victor Wembanyama’s dominant performance helped the Spurs maintain a slight edge through the fourth quarter, avoiding a potential sweep.
Wembanyama notched 32 points, eight rebounds, six assists, and only one turnover, rebounding from his crucial turnover in Game 2. This made him the second-youngest player, after Magic Johnson, to score over 30 points with at least five rebounds and assists in the Finals.
Stephon Castle contributed with 23 points, while rookie Dylan Harper added 13. “Less mistakes, more control,” Wembanyama stated during an ABC broadcast.
New York’s Brunson scored 32 points and Anunoby added 28, in a game that marked the city’s first Finals appearance since 1999. Despite strong efforts, the Knicks couldn’t overcome San Antonio’s superior number of assists, fewer turnovers, and more free throws. A last-minute 3-pointer by Brunson rekindled hopes, but the Spurs’ De’Aaron Fox and Castle sealed the win with key shots.
Game 4 is scheduled for Wednesday. The Spurs aim for a historic comeback, as no team has recovered from a 0-2 Finals deficit at home to win the championship before.
The Knicks, enjoying their first Finals since 1999, ended a 13-game postseason winning streak, the second-longest in playoff history. They now look ahead to regaining their momentum.
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