The New York Knicks mounted a remarkable comeback from a 14-point second-half deficit, overcame a difficult shooting performance from Jalen Brunson, and survived a late surge by Victor Wembanyama to secure a 105-95 victory over the San Antonio Spurs in Game 1 of the 2026 NBA Finals on Wednesday. The win puts the Knicks three victories away from their first championship since 1973, and as has become their trademark, they achieved it the hard way.
Spurs Dominate First Half
The San Antonio Spurs controlled the opening half with relative ease. Dylan Harper and Julian Champagnie provided early energy, with Harper scoring 16 points on 6-of-10 shooting and Champagnie finishing with 16 points and 10 rebounds, including five three-pointers. Brunson, who sustained minor knee and ankle injuries in the first quarter after Harrison Barnes accidentally fell into him following a push by Landry Shamet, struggled through three quarters, shooting 7-of-22 from the field. The Spurs led by seven at halftime and extended their advantage to 14 points in the third quarter, seemingly in control of the game.
Knicks Fight Back
New York clawed their way back in the third quarter. Deuce McBride banked in a corner three-pointer, and Wembanyama missed a late attempt, leaving the score tied at 76 heading into the fourth quarter. The final period unfolded in an unexpected manner. OG Anunoby, who finished with 17 points on three made three-pointers, hit a shot over Wembanyama. Stephon Castle answered immediately for San Antonio, and the teams exchanged baskets. Then Wembanyama powered through Karl-Anthony Towns for a basket and a foul, giving the Spurs a 95-94 lead with 2:14 remaining.
Knicks Close Strong
What followed was a decisive 9-0 run by the Knicks that sealed the game. Brunson hit a corner three-pointer to reclaim the lead, then made a falling-down fadeaway midrange jumper that extended the advantage to six points. Anunoby added two free throws to push the lead to eight. The Knicks successfully challenged a deflection call against Shamet, retained possession, and ran out the clock. The Spurs failed to score on their final three possessions, allowing New York to secure the victory.
Key Performances
Brunson finished with 30 points on 12-of-31 shooting, a stat line that reflects his struggles until his fourth-quarter heroics, where he shot 5-of-9. Karl-Anthony Towns contributed 18 points and 12 rebounds while defending Wembanyama. Josh Hart did not score but recorded 15 rebounds, six assists, four steals, and a plus-22 rating, exemplifying the Knicks' unique team construction. Landry Shamet added 13 points off the bench on 5-of-9 shooting, and Miles McBride had six points and four assists. Mikal Bridges chipped in with nine points and three assists.
Wembanyama's Efforts and Spurs' Concerns
Victor Wembanyama was dominant at times, finishing with 26 points, 12 rebounds, and three blocks, while shooting 12-of-13 from the free-throw line. However, his six turnovers proved costly, and the Spurs' inability to get stops in the final minutes was fatal. De'Aaron Fox, the 2023 Clutch Player of the Year, managed only seven points on 3-of-13 shooting, a major concern for San Antonio heading into Game 2. Devin Vassell added nine points and nine rebounds but could not provide the necessary offensive support.
Looking Ahead
Game 2 is scheduled for Friday night in San Antonio. The status of Brunson's knee injury will be closely monitored, as it could significantly impact the series. The Knicks have shown resilience and depth, while the Spurs must address their offensive inconsistencies and turnovers to even the series.
