The San Antonio Spurs clinched a crucial victory in Game 3 of the NBA Finals, defeating the New York Knicks, 115-111, at Madison Square Garden. This win ends the Knicks’ 13-game playoff victory streak. While New York still leads the series 2-1, the Spurs showcased strong defense and timely scoring to seize the win.
Victor Wembanyama, rebounding from a missed opportunity in Game 2, led the Spurs with 32 points, eight rebounds, and six assists. His teammates, De’Aaron Fox and Stephon Castle, contributed key baskets that helped secure the win.
From the start, San Antonio demonstrated their intent on the road, holding an 11-point lead after the first quarter. Wembanyama scored nine points on 4-of-6 shooting, while Castle added seven points on perfect shooting.
The Knicks, known for their resilience, turned the game around by halftime. Taking advantage of their home crowd, they closed the first half with a seven-point lead. OG Anunoby was pivotal, scoring 17 points while Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart added to the tally.
As the second half commenced, the Spurs swiftly erased the Knicks’ lead with forced turnovers and strategic plays. The teams exchanged baskets with San Antonio edging ahead by a single point as the fourth quarter began.
The final quarter saw the Spurs maintaining their lead through a combination of clutch scoring and defensive plays. Despite the Knicks’ foul trouble, San Antonio capitalized on free throws and expanded their lead to eight points with less than five minutes to play. Key defensive efforts, including Wembanyama’s block against Landry Shamet, solidified their position.
Stephon Castle made a significant three-point shot, extending the Spurs’ lead when the Knicks were closing in. Although Brunson cut the lead again, Fox’s 15-foot stepback jumper proved decisive with only seconds remaining.
OG Anunoby tried to keep New York’s hopes alive, finishing with 28 points. However, Castle’s critical free throws sealed the game for San Antonio. The game saw all Spurs starters score in double digits, with Dylan Harper adding 13 points from the bench.
Notable for the Knicks was Landry Shamet’s 1-of-8 shooting, including struggles from beyond the arc. This performance reflects his playoff success thus far, but marked a challenge against the Spurs’ defense.
President Donald Trump attended the game, accompanied by Knicks owner James Dolan. His presence was met with increased security at the arena.
Game 4 will continue at Madison Square Garden on Wednesday at 8:30 p.m. ET.