Jalen Brunson Leads Knicks to Game 1 Victory in NBA Finals

The NBA playoffs have a reputation for slowing down the game. Although it becomes challenging, each minute demands focus, and every possession counts. Victory often hinges on which team or player can deliver when the game reaches a standstill.

In Game 1 of the NBA Finals on Wednesday, Jalen Brunson proved to be that player for the New York Knicks. Brunson scored 13 points in the fourth quarter, leading the Knicks to a 105-95 win over the San Antonio Spurs. This victory gave the Knicks a 1-0 series lead. In contrast, the Spurs scored only 19 points in the final period and struggled to make their shots.

Brunson has emerged as one of the NBA’s top playoff performers. His ability to score under pressure has set him apart. Since the start of the 2023 postseason, Brunson leads in making and attempting clutch field goals. These are defined as shots taken in games within five points with less than five minutes remaining. Only 14.8% of Brunson’s successful clutch shots have been assisted, the lowest among players with over 100 clutch attempts. He often creates these shots by himself.

“In the biggest moments, he shows up, and that’s what MVPs should do,” said New York coach Mike Brown. “We trust him with the ball, and he delivers for us consistently.” Spurs coach Mitch Johnson added, “He’s skilled, picks spots well, knows his angles, and handles pressure shots expertly.”

In the first game, Brunson overcame challenges to lead in the fourth quarter. After a shaky start, he left the game briefly in the first quarter with a knee issue. In the second quarter, another injury to his ankle followed. By the end of the third quarter, he made only seven of 22 shots. Nonetheless, he excelled by finishing with 30 points in the fourth quarter.

Regarding his performance, Brunson said, “My confidence and work ethic allowed me to excel. Trust among my teammates and knowing they have my back is crucial, especially in such environments.”

While Brunson emerged strong, the Spurs looked for solutions. The Spurs posted only 40 points in the second half and failed to create opportunities. Victor Wembanyama had a momentary eight-point surge to close the gap, but his fourth-quarter efficiency remained low with just 3-of-8 shooting and two turnovers. The Knicks committed none in that period.

The Spurs struggled overall, shooting just 28.6% as a team in the final quarter. De’Aaron Fox, the team’s oldest starter, failed to stabilize the offense, missing both shots taken in the quarter and turning over the ball twice.

Clutch basketball can be unpredictable, and Game 1 doesn’t seal the Spurs’ fate in critical moments. However, this area has been challenging for San Antonio throughout their postseason. The team suffered a 96.8 offensive rating in clutch time following this loss. Conversely, the Knicks hold a 107.7 offensive rating and an 18.5 net rating in clutch playoff moments, suggesting they gain an edge over competitors under pressure. Brunson repeatedly created offense for himself in Game 1, whereas the Spurs could not respond effectively.

Brown concluded, “Brunson was the second half’s MVP. He did what MVP candidates do best — he led us to victory.”