Spurs’ Historic Collapse: A Look at Their Second-Half Meltdown in Game 4>

The San Antonio Spurs etched their names into NBA history for all the wrong reasons during Game 4 against the New York Knicks, allowing a staggering 29-point lead to slip away, marking the largest comeback in Finals history. Despite a promising start, highlighted by a Finals-record 14 three-pointers in the first half and individual performances from Victor Wembanyama and Dylan Harper, the second half turned into a nightmare for the Spurs.

After establishing a commanding position with a 29-point advantage thanks to a jumper by De'Aaron Fox, the Spurs began to falter. Their shooting, which had been exceptional in the first half, drastically declined as they managed just three additional three-pointers for the rest of the game. The team's overall shooting dipped from a remarkable 54% from beyond the arc in the first half to a dismal performance in the second half, where they scored only 30 points.

Wembanyama, who shone brightly in the opening half with 24 total points, struggled immensely after halftime, registering only eight points on 3-of-14 shooting. “Can’t really explain it right now. Execution, greediness of some sort. We clearly weren’t the most hungry in the second half,” he remarked following the game, reflecting the team's overall lack of intensity.

In the decisive fourth quarter, the Spurs were outscored 32-16, failing to find an effective offensive rhythm. Fox, usually reliable in clutch moments, missed several critical shots, further contributing to the team's offensive woes. To add to the chaos, a late turnover by Stephon Castle, who stepped out of bounds, encapsulated the Spurs' disarray as the Knicks capitalized on the opportunity to rally back.

On the opposing side, the Knicks' OG Anunoby and Jalen Brunson stepped up magnificently, with Anunoby scoring 33 points and Brunson consistently creating shots. This resurgence was instrumental in sealing the Spurs' fate, leading to an outcome that will long be remembered for its historical significance in Finals lore.