Knicks vs. Spurs Game 3: New York Leads Series at Madison Square Garden

Updated June 08, 2026, 8:49 PM EDT

The New York Knicks are leading the series against the San Antonio Spurs 2-0 as they head into Monday night’s game. Tip-off is scheduled for 8:30 p.m. ET at Madison Square Garden in New York City. You can watch the game on ABC or stream it on ESPN+.

Early Excitement for Wembanyama
Victor Wembanyama, the star player for San Antonio, has been focusing on getting the ball near the basket. This strategy has paid off with two successful shots at the rim. Additionally, Wembanyama blocked a three-point attempt, contributing to the Spurs’ early lead of 9-5 within the first three minutes.

Game 3 Underway
The New York Knicks, aiming to expand their lead, have finally started Game 3 after a long wait. The Spurs won the initial tip-off. Fans are eager to see if the Knicks can continue their success, following their first Finals appearance in over two decades. Madison Square Garden is alive with anticipation.

President Trump’s Presence
President Donald Trump is attending the game, which has led to mixed reactions. During the national anthem, he was met with boos, but the stadium erupted in cheers as the Knicks took to the court. Trump is watching from a suite with Knicks owner James Dolan.

Knicks Fans Show Strong Support
Despite increased security measures, Knicks fans filled Madison Square Garden well before tipoff. The arena is nearly full, with few empty seats visible.

Karl-Anthony Towns Shines
If the Finals MVP were decided after two games, Karl-Anthony Towns would be the frontrunner. Charles Barkley praised Towns on ‘Inside the NBA,’ highlighting his impact. Towns scored 21 points and had 13 rebounds in Game 2, demonstrating strong defense against Wembanyama.

Celebrity Row in Focus
Celebrities are a significant feature at Madison Square Garden. Among the notable attendees are actors Timothée Chalamet and Ben Stiller. A pregame video of Chalamet was shown, adding excitement to the already charged atmosphere.

Entry Delays Due to Security
With Trump’s visit, fans, media, and staff faced long lines to enter Madison Square Garden, with some waiting since early morning. This added security caused delays for everyone involved.

Knicks Fans Boo Wembanyama
Wembanyama, passing the court 45 minutes before tipoff, faced boos from the already assembled Knicks fans.

Atmosphere in New York
As the presidential motorcade approached, a crowd gathered outside, with some demonstrating displeasure. Inside Manhattan, excitement persists as Knicks fans anticipate the game.

Knicks’ Strategy
With a 2-0 lead, the Knicks seem poised for victory despite Jalen Brunson’s shooting slump. Throughout the series, Brunson’s clutch performances have been crucial in leading the team.

Spurs’ Perspective
Reggie Miller and Dan Patrick discussed Game 3, emphasizing that the Spurs have nothing to lose. San Antonio must stay resilient and focus on winning the upcoming game.

Karl-Anthony Towns’ Dominance
The ‘Dan Patrick Show’ highlighted Towns as a standout player in the NBA Finals, crucial to the Knicks’ success.

Record-Breaking Bid for Celebrity Row
The Knicks received a $1 million winning bid for two Celebrity Row seats, benefiting the Garden of Dreams Foundation.

Patrick Ewing and Tracy Morgan’s Surprise
New York Knicks legend Patrick Ewing and comedian Tracy Morgan appeared on the ‘TODAY’ plaza, offering 250 tickets to young fans for Games 3 and 4 at Madison Square Garden.

Knicks’ Advantage
The Knicks’ current form suggests they might secure their first title in 53 years. Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns have been key players, leading New York in their playoff winning streak.

Insight from Spurs’ Former Coach
A former coach’s advice has been invaluable to the Spurs throughout the postseason. After a tough loss to Oklahoma City, Gregg Popovich provided crucial advice to the team, encouraging discipline and a return to traditional gameplay.

Spurs’ Plan for Game 3
Trysta Krick and Vaughn Dalzell preview Game 3, discussing how the Spurs may recover from their 2-0 deficit against the dominant New York Knicks.