NEW YORK Knicks overcame a double-digit second-half deficit to defeat San Antonio Spurs, 105-95, in Game 1 of the 2026 NBA Finals on Wednesday night (Thursday in the Philippines) at the Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, Texas.
Jalen Brunson led the Knicks with 30 points, including a crucial three-pointer in the closing minutes that helped New York seize control for good and take a 1-0 edge in the best-of-seven finals.
Karl-Anthony Towns added a double-double of 18 points and 12 rebounds, while OG Anunoby contributed 17 points as the Knicks extended their postseason winning streak to 12 games.
San Antonio appeared headed for victory after building a 14-point advantage midway through the third quarter. However, the Knicks responded with a strong comeback, ending the period on a 22-9 surge to tie the score at 76-all.
The contest remained tight down the stretch. Victor Wembanyama converted two free throws with 2:16 remaining to give the Spurs a 95-94 edge, but Brunson answered with a three-pointer on the ensuing possession.
New York then dominated the closing moments, including a clutch hit by Brunson with under a minute left, preventing San Antonio from scoring again while pulling away for the 10-point win.
Wembanyama finished with 26 points and 12 rebounds in his NBA Finals debut, though he struggled from the field, making just six of his 21 attempts. Stephon Castle added 17 points, while Julian Champagnie and Dylan Harper chipped in 16 points apiece for the Spurs.
New York grabbed an early lead before San Antonio settled into the game and carried a 55-48 advantage into halftime. The Spurs extended the margin in the third quarter, but the Knicks gradually regained momentum and eventually took control late in the fourth./PN
BOX SCORE:
NEW YORK 105 — Brunson 30, Towns 18, Anunoby 17, Shamet 13, Bridges 9, Alvarado 7, McBride 6, Hart 3, Robinson 2, Clarkson 0.
SAN ANTONIO 95 — Wembanyama 26, Castle 17, Harper 16, Champagnie 16, Vassell 9, Fox 7, Johnson 3, Bryant 1, Kornet 0, Barnes 0.
Quarterscores: 19-27; 48-55; 76-76; 105-95.
