Knicks fans saw their first NBA Finals game in 27 years Tuesday night, but the Spurs played spoiler, edging the Knicks in a tight contest, 115-111, to now trail in the series two games to one. It was the first loss by the Knicks since April 30, a stretch of 14 games.
The Spurs led by 12 in the first half, but the Knicks came back to lead by seven at halftime. San Antonio was notably more physical and it worked to their advantage, drawing fouls and calls, going to the line 32 times — 24 in the second half, to eight for the Knicks. The Spurs worked to take a lead early in the third quarter and never lost it.
Victor Wembanyama led the Spurs with 32 points, with all five starters in double-digits for points. The Spurs also did well to distribute the ball, totaling 28 assists on the night, led by De'Aaron Fox's eight.
Jalen Brunson led the Knicks with 32 points and improved his shooting over Games 1 and 2, going 11 for 25, and OG Anunoby stepped up with 28 points.
My take: A great game, but the worst-officiated over the last two series. Knicks head coach Mike Brown addressed the topic respectfully in his postgame press conference, and he had a legitimate beef. A smart move to work the crew ahead of Game 4, as multiple videos circulate showing no-calls on flagrant fouls, and soft calls against. That said, the Spurs looked their best in the Finals, to date, and there was a lot of good basketball to enjoy in spite of the officiating.
THE ASYLUM
Spurs spoilers at MSG
Knicks fans saw their first NBA Finals game in 27 years Tuesday night, but the Spurs played spoiler, edging the Knicks in a tight contest, 115-111, to now trail in the series two games to one. It was the first loss by the Knicks since April 30, a stretch of 14 games.
The Spurs led by 12 in the first half, but the Knicks came back to lead by seven at halftime. San Antonio was notably more physical and it worked to their advantage, drawing fouls and calls, going to the line 32 times — 24 in the second half, to eight for the Knicks. The Spurs worked to take a lead early in the third quarter and never lost it.
Victor Wembanyama led the Spurs with 32 points, with all five starters in double-digits for points. The Spurs also did well to distribute the ball, totaling 28 assists on the night, led by De'Aaron Fox's eight.
Jalen Brunson led the Knicks with 32 points and improved his shooting over Games 1 and 2, going 11 for 25, and OG Anunoby stepped up with 28 points.
My take: A great game, but the worst-officiated over the last two series. Knicks head coach Mike Brown addressed the topic respectfully in his postgame press conference, and he had a legitimate beef. A smart move to work the crew ahead of Game 4, as multiple videos circulate showing no-calls on flagrant fouls, and soft calls against. That said, the Spurs looked their best in the Finals, to date, and there was a lot of good basketball to enjoy in spite of the officiating.
Want to participate in our comments?
Want an ad-free experience?
Become a member, and enjoy premium benefits!
We’d love to have you!