Knicks break Spurs’ Finals dynasty with Game 1 victory
The New York Knicks defeated the San Antonio Spurs 105-95 on Wednesday night, marking their 12th consecutive playoff win and securing the first Game 1 victory against San Antonio in NBA Finals history.
The New York Knicks extended their winning streak to 12 consecutive playoff games, securing a 105-95 victory over the San Antonio Spurs in Game 1 of the 2026 NBA Finals. Played at the Frost Bank Center in San Antonio on Wednesday night, the match saw New York overcome a 14-point deficit in the second half to claim the opening contest. Jalen Brunson led the offensive effort with 30 points, while Karl-Anthony Towns contributed 18 points and 12 rebounds, and OG Anunoby added 17 points for the victors.
The result marks a significant shift in the historical dynamics of the series. The Spurs had previously held a perfect 6-0 record in Game 1 of the NBA Finals, a streak that ended with New York’s win. Furthermore, this contest marked the first time in franchise history that the Spurs trailed in an NBA Finals series before the final buzzer. Despite the loss, Victor Wembanyama recorded 26 points and 12 rebounds for San Antonio, though he struggled from the field, shooting 6 for 21. Stephon Castle scored 17 points, with Julian Champagnie and Dylan Harper each contributing 16.
The game’s trajectory shifted dramatically in the third quarter. After the Spurs led by 10 points following the first quarter and extended their advantage to 14 midway through the third, New York mounted a 22-9 run to tie the game at 76 points heading into the final period. The Knicks finished the game on an 11-0 run to seal the victory. The decisive moment arrived with 2:16 remaining; after Wembanyama’s free throws put San Antonio ahead 95-94, Brunson hit a corner three-pointer to give the Knicks a 96-95 lead they would not relinquish.
Notable figures attended the match, including former Spurs coach Gregg Popovich, who watched from a suite, continuing his presence at every Spurs Finals game. The arena also hosted Spurs legends such as David Robinson and Tim Duncan, alongside Knicks icon Patrick Ewing. Celebrities including Spike Lee, Tracy Morgan, Ben Stiller, Fat Joe, and Timothée Chalamet were in attendance, reflecting the high-profile nature of the series opener.
The Knicks enter the series on a seven-time historic playoff streak, aiming for their first championship since 1973. The Spurs, making their first Finals appearance since 2014, now face the challenge of overcoming a deficit in a series they previously dominated in the opening game. The series continues with Game 2 scheduled for the following night in San Antonio.
