Knicks’ Historic Rally Positions Them for Championship Victory

The New York Knicks are on the verge of a historic NBA championship after a thrilling 107-106 victory over the San Antonio Spurs. Overcoming a daunting 29-point deficit, the Knicks moved one step closer to their first title since 1973, leading the NBA Finals 3-1.

OG Anunoby tipped in a missed long-distance attempt by Jalen Brunson with just 1.2 seconds remaining, completing the improbable rally. The Knicks now have three opportunities to seal the championship.

Early on, prospects looked grim as the Spurs secured a 27-point halftime advantage. However, Jalen Brunson spearheaded the comeback with 36 points, while Anunoby contributed 33 points. The stage is set for Game 5 in San Antonio on Saturday night.

Historically, no team has climbed back from a deficit larger than 24 points in the finals since the Boston Celtics overcame the Lakers in 2008. At one point, the Spurs led by a daunting 81-52 in the third quarter.

The only larger comeback in NBA playoff history was staged by the Los Angeles Clippers, who overcame a 31-point disadvantage against the Golden State Warriors in 2019. The Knicks’ fortunes seemed bleak as their long winning streak of 13 games was snapped during Game 3.

Victor Wembanyama and the Spurs dominated early, establishing the largest halftime lead by any visiting team in finals history. Initially, the Spurs thrived, making 11 of their first 16 three-point attempts. However, their offense faltered in the second half, hitting only 3 of 17 from beyond the arc, while the Knicks outscored them 58-30.

Spurs coach Mitch Johnson expressed disappointment, noting, “We got on our heels — we missed some shots.” Fans at Madison Square Garden erupted in excitement, particularly during a rendition of Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin'” after the Knicks’ improbable comeback.

Wembanyama delivered 24 points and 13 rebounds but struggled with shooting, going 9 for 25 from the field. The first three games had been won by road teams, a rarity in finals history, and San Antonio had been poised to extend that trend.

Although President Donald Trump was absent from the game, Taylor Swift attended amidst continued security restrictions around Madison Square Garden, following similar protocols from Game 3. These restrictions frustrated the Knicks, prompting them to abandon plans for an outdoor watch party.

Early in the game, the Knicks contained the Spurs’ offense, limiting them to 14 points on 4-for-20 shooting in the third quarter. The Knicks’ 13-0 run cut their deficit to 90-75 by the end of that quarter. Continually undaunted, these determined Knicks have previously recovered from a 22-point deficit against Cleveland in the Eastern Conference finals.

Despite the Spurs regaining a slight lead with 30 seconds left, the Knicks rallied once more. Dylan Harper contributed 21 points, while De’Aaron Fox and Devin Vassell added 18 each for the Spurs, who aim to extend the series to a sixth game back in New York.

Pre-game, Wembanyama faced boos from the crowd and experienced physical play from the Knicks. Mitchell Robinson received a flagrant foul for a high hit, and Jose Alvarado’s actions were reviewed for a potential low blow. Wembanyama, who was also assessed a flagrant foul, was resilient but lamented missing two crucial free throws with 1:47 to play as the Spurs led 104-103.