The San Antonio Spurs defeated the New York Knicks 115-111 in Game 3 of the NBA Finals on June 8, 2026, at Madison Square Garden. This victory prevented the Spurs from falling into a challenging 0-3 series deficit.
Spurs Show Offensive Firepower
Coach Mitch Johnson emphasized the team's aggressive strategy. "We were in attack mode," he said, reflecting a shift from their previous performances.
"We showed better poise at times," Johnson added. "I thought we finished the game still with some things that need improvement, but stronger than we did the last two games,"
Mitch Johnson, Spurs Coach
- Victor Wembanyama led with 32 points, 8 rebounds, and 6 assists.
- Stephon Castle contributed 23 points, crucial in the closing moments.
Wembanyama's performance was particularly significant as it ended New York's impressive 13-game postseason win streak. The Knicks had not lost a playoff game in over a month.
Despite a strong second quarter from the Knicks, where they scored 42 points, the Spurs stayed composed. Wembanyama noted the importance of mental recovery, stating, "I need some time off, let my brain cool down, recover."
Knicks' Winning Streak Halted
Jalen Brunson scored 32 points for the Knicks but could not secure the win. The loss marked a significant moment in the series, as no team has ever come back from a 0-3 deficit in NBA Finals history.
Knicks coach Mike Brown acknowledged the challenge ahead. "They are a great team. They are well-coached. They have an iconic player. It’s not going to be easy," he remarked.
Presidential Presence and Crowd Reaction
The game was notable not just for the basketball but also for the attendance of President Donald Trump, who received mixed reactions from the crowd. Knicks fans booed him during his appearance, yet he downplayed the reception as largely enthusiastic.
As the series continues, the Knicks will host Game 4 on June 10, where they will aim to reclaim momentum.