The San Antonio Spurs clinched a vital win against the New York Knicks in Game 3 of the NBA Finals, defeating them 115-111 at Madison Square Garden. Despite the Knicks leading the series 2-1, the Spurs made a significant comeback, ending the Knicks’ 13-game playoff win streak. Stellar defense and decisive plays were pivotal in this victory.
Victor Wembanyama led the Spurs with 32 points, eight rebounds and six assists. He rebounded from the previous game where he missed a crucial shot in Game 2. This game saw strong performances from his teammates, De’Aaron Fox and Stephon Castle, who contributed key baskets.
Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs reacts during the second quarter against the New York Knicks in Game Three of the 2026 NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden in New York City on June 8, 2026.
The Spurs were determined from the start, securing an 11-point lead in the first quarter. Wembanyama scored nine points on 4-of-6 shooting, with Castle perfect from the field with three shots.
The Knicks, known for their resilience, mounted a comeback leveraging their home crowd’s energy. They ended the first half with a seven-point lead, 64-57, with OG Anunoby scoring 17 points on 5-of-6 shooting, making effective two threes and five free throws. Jalen Brunson contributed 15 points, and Josh Hart surprised the Spurs with his three-point shooting, scoring 13 points.
In the second half, the Spurs quickly regained control, overturning the Knicks’ lead. Both teams exchanged intense plays with San Antonio entering the fourth quarter with a slight lead. The Spurs then managed to maintain their advantage during the fourth quarter with strategic free throws and defensive stands.
Jalen Brunson of the New York Knicks works against Dylan Harper and Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs during the third quarter in Game Three of the 2026 NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden in New York City on June 8, 2026.
Castle’s clutch three-pointer and Fox’s late jumper were instrumental, preserving the lead. Despite Anunoby’s efforts with a three-pointer that kept the Knicks within reach, Castle’s free throws sealed the game’s outcome. Castle concluded the match with 23 points, supported by five rebounds and assists. Every Spurs starter logged double-digit scores.
For the Knicks, Landry Shamet struggled, going 1-for-8 from the field. His shooting from beyond the arc, where he had been successful earlier in the playoffs, faltered significantly during this matchup.
President Donald Trump’s presence at the game, along with Knicks owner James Dolan, led to increased security measures at Madison Square Garden. Game 4 of the NBA Finals continues on Wednesday night at 8:30 p.m. ET.