Spurs halt Knicks’ playoff home streak in Game 3 thriller

The San Antonio Spurs have ended the New York Knicks’ 13-game playoff home winning streak with a victory in Game 3 of the NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden. The result shifts the series to San Antonio, where the Knicks must secure at least one win to remain in contention for the championship.

San Antonio capitalised on New York’s errors, converting 13 Knicks turnovers into 21 points. The loss marks a significant turning point for the visiting side, which had been swept in the first two games of the series. Knicks fans will now have to wait at least 48 hours to see their team win a Finals game at Madison Square Garden.

The match was also defined by the historic attendance of US President Donald Trump, marking the first time a sitting US president has attended an NBA Finals game. His presence triggered significant security protocols and resulted in a divided reception from the crowd, with sections of the audience booing loudly when he appeared on video screens.

Prior to this defeat, the Knicks held a 2-0 series lead after sweeping the opening games. Game 1 at Frost Bank Center was marred by an incident where a fan stormed the court to attempt a selfie with Spurs star Victor Wembanyama, causing delays. In Game 2, Karl-Anthony Towns recorded 21 points and 13 rebounds for New York.

The series now moves to San Antonio, placing immediate pressure on the Knicks to adapt their performance away from home. The Spurs’ ability to exploit New York’s turnovers suggests a strategic shift in the Finals, as the series balance tips following the Game 3 outcome.