San Antonio Spurs Defeat New York Knicks in Game 3 of NBA Finals

In the ongoing NBA Finals, the home team continued to struggle, as the San Antonio Spurs emerged victorious in Game 3, defeating the New York Knicks with a score of 115-111. This victory was crucial for the Spurs, who played at Madison Square Garden on Monday night.

Although New York maintains a 2-1 lead in the series, the Spurs overcame the deficit with strong defense, key plays, and by limiting the Knicks to just 2-of-12 from three-point range in the fourth quarter. This win ended the Knicks’ impressive 13-game playoff win streak.

Victor Wembanyama, a standout performer for the Spurs, led with 32 points, eight rebounds, and six assists. Despite missing a critical shot in Game 2, he played an essential role in this victory.

Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs reacts during the second quarter against the New York Knicks in Game Three of the 2026 NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden in New York City on June 8, 2026. (Dustin Satloff/Getty Images)

De’Aaron Fox and Stephon Castle also made significant contributions with timely baskets. Both players were instrumental in the Spurs’ efforts, adding to Wembanyama’s impressive performance.

The Spurs set the game’s tone early with determination, gaining an 11-point lead after the first quarter. Wembanyama scored nine points on 4-of-6 shooting, while Castle contributed a perfect 3-of-3 for seven points.

Yet, the Knicks showcased their resilience. Before halftime, they used the loud home crowd’s energy to regain the lead, finishing the half ahead 64-57. OG Anunoby shone with 17 points, including two three-pointers and five free throws. Jalen Brunson added 15 points, and Josh Hart, left unguarded, capitalized with 13 points.

The Knicks entered the second half with momentum, but the Spurs quickly leveled the playing field. They forced turnovers and capitalized on opportunities, erasing the Knicks’ seven-point advantage almost instantly.

The teams exchanged scores, with the Spurs gaining a slight one-point lead into the fourth quarter. The final quarter promised intense competition at Madison Square Garden.

The Spurs managed to hold their lead, especially as the Knicks struggled with fouls, allowing San Antonio to gain the bonus advantage. Wembanyama capitalized on free throw opportunities while the Knicks struggled early in the quarter.

San Antonio secured an eight-point lead with 4:50 remaining after Wembanyama scored two more free throws. The Spurs’ defense shone through when thwarting the Knicks’ three-point attempts, highlighted by Wembanyama blocking Landry Shamet’s layup effort.

Castle delivered a vital basket with 1:53 left, sinking a three-pointer to extend the Spurs’ lead to seven. This proved crucial as the Knicks tried to regain control.

Brunson’s three-pointer brought the Knicks within three points, but Fox’s 15-foot jumper with 12.2 seconds remaining seemed to seal the fate.

Anunoby finished with 28 points and tried to keep the Knicks in the game by hitting another three-pointer, cutting the deficit to two points. However, Castle made two decisive free throws, ensuring the Spurs’ victory.

Karl-Anthony Towns of the New York Knicks defends Stephon Castle of the San Antonio Spurs during the second quarter of Game 3 in the 2026 NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden in New York City on June 8, 2026. (Al Bello/Getty Images)

Castle ended the game with 23 points, shooting 8-of-14, along with five rebounds and five assists. The Spurs starters all finished in double figures, with Dylan Harper also contributing 13 points from the bench.

The Knicks’ shooting difficulties were evident, particularly with Shamet’s performance. His 1-of-8 from the field, especially 1-of-7 from three-point range, was a significant factor in their loss.

President Donald Trump attended the game, accompanied by Knicks owner James Dolan. His presence increased security measures throughout the venue.

Game 4 of the NBA Finals is scheduled to tip off at Madison Square Garden on Wednesday night at 8:30 p.m. ET.