Knicks Defy Odds Again, Claim Game 1 of NBA Finals

SAN ANTONIO — The New York Knicks seem to thrive when faced with adversity. Once more, they allowed their opponent to gain a significant lead, only to launch a stunning comeback. This time, however, their victory comes without any qualifiers or excuses, solidifying their reputation as the league's resilient underdogs.

In a reminiscent fashion, the Knicks overcame a 14-point deficit in the latter stages of Game 1 of the 2026 NBA Finals against the San Antonio Spurs. Just as they did in the Eastern Conference finals against the Cleveland Cavaliers, where they rallied from a 22-point halftime deficit, the Knicks showcased their tenacity on the grand stage. After trailing by 14 with just over six minutes left in the third quarter, they flipped the script with a 25-11 surge to end the period, eventually winning the game 105-95 and seizing a 1-0 lead in the series.

This victory places the Knicks just three wins away from securing their first championship since 1973. The team not only achieved this milestone but did so in front of a passionate crowd, as fans traveled from New York to support them despite the long distance to San Antonio. Their presence added to the electric atmosphere at the Frost Bank Center, where chants of "Let’s Go Knicks" echoed, even as the Spurs attempted to drown them out with louder music.

During the game, the Knicks' dynamic duo of Karl-Anthony Towns and Jalen Brunson shone brightly. Towns effectively outperformed the Spurs' Victor Wembanyama, finishing with 18 points, 12 rebounds, and four assists. Meanwhile, Brunson, despite battling knee issues, delivered a critical three-pointer in the closing moments, securing the Knicks' lead and making it a three-possession game. As Spurs fans began to leave, the Knicks' supporters reveled in the moment, reminiscent of their previous playoff victories.

The Knicks have established themselves as the ultimate comeback team, proving that no lead is truly safe against them. With the odds now favoring them historically—teams that win Game 1 of the NBA Finals typically go on to win the championship about 70% of the time—the Knicks are poised to continue their quest for glory. Their next challenge lies ahead at Madison Square Garden, where they aim to further solidify their championship aspirations.