Victor Wembanyama has earned his first NBA Finals win, helping the San Antonio Spurs to a 115-111 victory over the New York Knicks. This marked the Knicks’ first loss in 46 days, altering the dynamics of the best-of-seven series and narrowing their lead to 2-1.
Wembanyama delivered an impressive performance with 32 points, eight rebounds, and six assists. The 7-foot-4 player has been a key factor in the Spurs’ attempt to make a unique NBA Finals comeback.
“I’m sure Victor has numerous sources of motivation,” said Spurs coach Mitch Johnson. “I don’t think any of us are surprised or expect anything different than a strong performance.”
The Madison Square Garden crowd, which included former President Donald Trump, watched as the Knicks’ 13-game winning streak, the second-longest in NBA postseason history, came to an end. This series of victories had stirred excitement among New York fans, leading to enthusiastic watch parties and high ticket prices.
The contrast between home and away games was noted by Wembanyama. “At home, it really feels like playing six against five. Here, it feels like five against six,” he commented, emphasizing the challenge of playing at Madison Square Garden after the Knicks’ first home NBA Finals game since 1999.
Knicks coach Mike Brown expressed concerns over the Spurs’ 24-8 advantage in free throw attempts during the second half, stating, “They are a great team. They are well-coached. They have an iconic player. It’s not going to be easy.”
Stephon Castle and De’Aaron Fox made crucial late-game shots, preventing the Spurs from falling into a 3-0 deficit—a situation no NBA team has overcome. The series will continue on Wednesday night, with Game 5 scheduled for Saturday.
Castle concluded the game with 23 points, assisting the Spurs in their quest to be the first team to win the NBA Finals after losing the first two games at home. Jalen Brunson scored 32 points and OG Anunoby added 28 for the Knicks.
The back-and-forth battle entertained fans who endured long lines and stringent security to witness the NBA Finals’ return to Madison Square Garden. Despite the Knicks’ defeat, optimism remained among fans gathered at Manhattan’s Bryant Park.
Wembanyama minimized errors in this match, scoring 10 points in the final quarter and ensuring the Spurs maintained their lead against Brunson’s comeback attempts.
Early in the game, Wembanyama’s two initial dunks established a double-digit lead for the Spurs. They capitalized on the Knicks’ frustrations with referees and their own gameplay, leading 33-22 after the first quarter.
The Knicks rallied in the second quarter, eventually leading 64-57 by halftime. However, the Spurs regained the lead in the third quarter with crucial points from Castle, ultimately securing the win with late free throws.
The Knicks had shown strong performances in the Eastern Conference playoffs but struggled during stretches of this game, hindered by Karl-Anthony Towns’ limited scoring and Mikal Bridges’ foul trouble.