The New York Knicks achieved a historic comeback from a 29-point deficit, edging out the San Antonio Spurs 107-106 and nearing their first championship since 1973. OG Anunoby secured the win by tipping in Jalen Brunson’s missed 3-point attempt with just 1.2 seconds remaining. This victory gives the Knicks a 3-1 lead in the NBA Finals, setting up three opportunities to clinch the title.
Record-Breaking Comeback
At halftime, the Spurs had surged to a 27-point lead. However, Brunson led the Knicks’ rally with 36 points while Anunoby added 33. This comeback marks the largest in an NBA finals game since detailed records began in 1997. The previous record was a 24-point overturn by Boston against the Lakers in 2008. The Knicks now look to make history with the chance to secure the championship.
Game 5 will take place on Saturday night in San Antonio. This comeback is second only to a 31-point turnaround by the Los Angeles Clippers against Golden State in a 2019 first-round series.
Insurmountable Odds Overcome
The Knicks’ winning streak was interrupted in Game 3, and during the first half, it seemed they were headed for another loss. Spurs, with the help of Victor Wembanyama, built the largest finals halftime lead for a visiting team. However, they faltered in the second half, managing only three of 17 from beyond the arc as the Knicks outscored them 58-30.
“We got on our heels — we missed some shots,” said Spurs coach Mitch Johnson. “It’s disappointing, to say the least.”
Enthusiastic fans at Madison Square Garden took heart from the team’s resilience, singing “Don’t Stop Believin'” as they witnessed what once seemed impossible.
High-Pressure Environment
Wembanyama had a strong 24-point, 13-rebound game, but his 9 for 25 shooting from the field left room for regrets. The finals had already seen road teams winning the first three games, a rare occurrence.
Security protocols at Madison Square Garden, previously enforced for a game attended by former President Donald Trump, remained tight for this game attended by Taylor Swift. The Knicks had to cancel plans for an outdoor watch party due to these restrictions.
Despite a lackluster first half, the Knicks managed to limit the Spurs to a mere 14 points and 4-for-20 shooting in the third quarter, setting up their own rally. Their tenacity has been consistent throughout the playoffs, evidenced by a previous 22-point comeback against Cleveland in the Eastern Conference finals.
Final Moments
Even when Stephon Castle’s two free throws briefly returned the lead to San Antonio, the Knicks remained undeterred. An exemplary performance from Dylan Harper, who scored 21 points, and contributions from De’Aaron Fox and Devin Vassell, both scoring 18 for the Spurs, couldn’t stave off the Knicks’ determination. As the series advances, the Spurs aim to extend it to a Game 6 back in New York.
The atmosphere grew tense as fans expressed disdain for Wembanyama during warm-ups. He faced challenges from the Knicks’ physicality, including flagrant fouls from Mitchell Robinson and Jose Alvarado. Wembanyama also committed a flagrant foul but proved resilient. Nonetheless, he may lament his missed free throws with 1:47 left that could have secured a lead for San Antonio.
Norwegian Fans Bring Viking Energy to Boston’s World Cup Celebrations 
Attending the New York Knicks Championship Parade with Kids: What Parents Need to Know 
Brazil’s Gold Badge at the 2026 FIFA World Cup 
Key Highlights from 2022 World Cup Day 6 
Tyler Adams’ Mini-Pitch Initiative Expands Soccer Accessibility 
Avery Miller’s Rise in Naperville Central Softball