Knicks Extend Series Lead as Spurs’ Late Collapse Highlights Structural Deficits
Victor Wembanyama’s game-high 29 points were not enough to overcome critical late-game errors and a series-long offensive struggle that leaves San Antonio facing an uphill battle in Game 3.
The New York Knicks have taken a commanding 2-0 lead in the 2026 NBA Finals after defeating the San Antonio Spurs 105-104 in Game 2 at the Frost Bank Center in San Antonio. The victory marks the third time in NBA history that a team has won the first two games of the Finals on the road, joining the 1993 Chicago Bulls and the 1995 Houston Rockets. The series now shifts to New York for Game 3, scheduled for Monday at 8:30 p.m. ET.
Despite holding a 14-point lead midway through the fourth quarter, the Knicks saw their advantage evaporate as the Spurs mounted a 14-0 run to take their first lead of the second half. The game was ultimately decided in the final seconds when Spurs centre Victor Wembanyama committed a turnover with 13 seconds remaining. The errant pass, which bounced off teammate Stephon Castle, allowed Jalen Brunson to secure the ball and sink a free throw to seal the win for New York.
Wembanyama finished with a game-high 29 points, nine rebounds, four blocks, and two steals, leading San Antonio’s comeback attempt. However, his late-game performance was marred by missed opportunities, including two crucial mid-range jumpers in the final minute and the turnover that proved decisive. The Spurs’ offensive rating of 105.1 in Game 2, while an improvement from Game 1, still ranked last in the NBA for the regular season, underscoring persistent structural issues in their half-court execution.
For New York, the win was bolstered by strong performances from key rotation players. Karl-Anthony Towns recorded 21 points and 13 rebounds on efficient 8-for-12 shooting, while Mikal Bridges contributed 20 points and six assists. Bridges, who had faced scrutiny earlier in the playoffs, provided critical scoring during a stretch where New York’s primary offensive options were on the bench, helping to extend a lead that appeared secure before the Spurs’ late surge.
San Antonio’s struggles extended beyond Wembanyama’s individual errors. Rookie Dylan Harper provided a spark off the bench with 15 points in 32 minutes, but the Spurs’ overall depth was exposed as their reserves combined for only four points outside of Harper. With the series moving to Madison Square Garden, the Spurs face the challenge of reversing a trend that saw them outscored significantly when their primary centre rested, while New York looks to build on its historic road advantage.
