Spurs Surprise With 115-111 Win In Game 3 Against Knicks – What Went Wrong For New York?

The San Antonio Spurs survived Game 3 at Madison Square Garden to breathe new life into the NBA Finals on Sunday night, defeating the New York Knicks 115-111 and cutting the Knicks’ series lead to 2-1.

The Spurs absolutely needed this win. Falling behind 3-0 would have spelled trouble and set up a potential sweep. But behind their young, talented roster—and in front of a raucous Knicks crowd—the Spurs got it done and showed why they’re the Western Conference champions and one of the league’s most dangerous teams now and for years to come.

Leading the way was Victor Wembanyama, who dominated on both sides of the floor. He was much more aggressive than in the first two games in San Antonio. Wembanyama played free of pressure, was efficient and created problems at the rim for the Knicks all night.

The Spurs also got key contributions from their supporting cast. Dylan Harper and Stephon Castle, who played his best game of the NBA Finals, stepped up, while Sean Penny knocked down threes. The Spurs’ defense made key stops, preventing New York from cutting it to a one-possession game late.

New York did make it interesting late, but it took a lot of effort. The Knicks didn’t play their best, although OG Anunoby contributed 28 points and Jordan Clarkson added 10 off the bench. Karl-Anthony Towns wasn’t aggressive in Game 3 after being a key factor in the first two games. The Knicks are at their best when Towns is assertive and has the ball in his hands.

Now all eyes turn to Game 4, where San Antonio will try to even the series or New York could go up 3-1—one win away from the championship. With the Spurs back in the fight, the NBA Finals are now far more competitive.