Spurs edged the Knicks 115-111 in Game 3 of the 2026 NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden, avoiding a 3-0 deficit and cutting New York’s series lead to 2-1.
The first Finals game at MSG since 1999 delivered an electric atmosphere packed with celebrities and roaring fans, but the young Spurs showed poise on the road, rallying from a halftime deficit to spoil the home party with clutch plays down the stretch.
Here are the Top 5 key moments from a thrilling, back-and-forth battle:
1. Knicks’ explosive second quarter (42 points):
After a competitive first quarter, New York caught fire, dropping 42 in the period to take a 64-57 halftime lead. Jalen Brunson and the supporting cast feasted, turning the home crowd into a frenzy and putting the Spurs on their heels.
2. Wembanyama’s transcendent scoring night:
Victor Wembanyama exploded for 32 points on efficient 11-of-18 shooting, dominating stretches with his size, skill, and versatility. His second-half presence anchored San Antonio’s comeback and kept them in striking distance throughout.
3. De’Aaron Fox’s clutch midrange dagger:
Late in the fourth, Fox delivered a big post-up jumper to push the Spurs ahead by five (113-108 with under a minute left), showcasing his veteran poise in a hostile environment and shifting momentum decisively.
4. OG Anunoby’s corner three bomb:
With the Knicks trailing, OG Anunoby drilled a tough, contested corner three over Dylan Harper’s defense (bringing it to 113-111). It sent fans rushing back in from the exits and gave New York life in a desperate moment.
5. Stephon Castle’s late free throws and seal:
After Brunson fouled Castle, the rookie guard knocked down both free throws to make it a four-point game (115-111). Combined with strong execution and defensive stops, it allowed the Spurs to close out the gritty win despite the MSG pressure.
Other notables: Stephon Castle added 23 points in a strong supporting role, while Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby combined for 60 points in the loss. The game featured huge swings, timely threes, and defensive stands—pure Finals intensity.
The Knicks remain favored with home advantage and their 13-game playoff win streak still alive heading into Game 4, but the Spurs proved they’re far from done. Classic playoff basketball!
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