Spurs vs Knicks: Wembanyama's heroics lead Spurs to victory

French star Victor Wembanyama's 32-points helped Spurs seal their first victory at NBA Finals Game 3 at Madison Square Garden, New York. Details inside.

Staff Writer Jun 8, 2026 at 2348 Z

Updated: Jun 9, 2026 at 2242 Z

Spurs vs Knicks: Wembanyama's heroics lead Spurs to victory
Victor Wembanyama has scored over 4,200 NBA career points for the San Antonio Spurs, as of June 8, 2026. Credit: Daiei Onoguchi / CC BY-4.0

27 years of wait comes to an end as Madison Square Garden hosts its first NBA Finals game since 1999: same teams, different players, and an electrifying atmosphere for New York. In 1999, It was a must-win match for the Knicks, and they missed it by a point. And that's how the San Antonio Spurs defeated them in the past, shattering their trophy dreams.

Fast-forward to June 8, 2026, and the two teams met again at the same spot. While the Spurs have already dominated the league stage and the knockouts, the Knicks are leading the NBA Finals by 2-1. Statistically, the Spurs are a stronger team, but in their last two games, they were missing the energy they had last night.

Finally, the San Antonio Spurs must be relieved after a 2-0 deficit against the New York Knicks. After a neck-and-neck performance, the Spurs won 115-111 and would be eyeing another win on Thursday, June 11, at Madison Square Garden, New York. Though every player contributed, it was Victor Wembanyama's day for scoring a match winning 32 points in 39 minutes of his game.

Also read || Knicks Survive, Knicks Thrive — 2-0 in the NBA Finals

Knicks first half-dominance resumes

OG Anunoby New York Knicks
OG Anunoby scored 17 points in the first two quarters of NBA Finals Game 3 at Madison Square Garden, New York. Credit: Oanunuby  / Instagram

Just like the second game of NBA finals, the Knicks continued their dominance in the first halves. Initially, it was Victor Wembanyama's quick dribbles and sprints that gave Spurs an edge over the Knicks. It was evident that the Spurs' strategy was to overpower the Knicks with a decent lead. With a nine-point lead, the Spurs conquered the first quarter 34-25.

The second quarter began with new energy. The Knicks started playing an attacking game. Be it Towns, Brunson, Anunoby, or Hart, every Knicks player was cruising like an HSC Francisco. With 4 minutes, 20 seconds to spare, Jalen Brunson scored a three-pointer, giving the Knicks a lead of 1 point. As the second quarter ended, the Knicks were on a driving seat with a seven-point lead. Scores were 64-57.

The Knicks hero of the first half was OG Anunoby for his crucial 17 points, 2 rebounds, and an assist. For the Spurs, it was Stephon Castle with his 18 points, 2 rebounds, and 3 assists. Like every Spurs vs Knicks match, this game also looked like a very close encounter. Knicks fans were pumped up and waiting for NYK to replicate the first two games.

Also read || New York Knicks Steal Game 1 of NBA Finals Against the Spurs

Spurs' much-needed comeback in the second half

Devin Vassell San Antonio Spurs
Devin Vassell (in picture) is a vital playmaker for the San Antonio Spurs, providing elite secondary scoring, connective playmaking, and floor spacing. Credit: Spurs / Instagram

The Spurs looked strong throughout the season, and this game was no different. After a 7-point lead, San Antonio's men were ready to reclaim their lead. Though the Knicks were looking unstoppable for a while, Vassell's three-pointer with 7 minutes, 26 seconds to spare helped the Spurs get a one-point lead.

The Knicks fought back and regained the lead, but the tug of war continued. Scores were 89-89 until Dylan Harper scored a three-pointer to give the Spurs a three-point lead. In the end, the Knicks ' Mikal Bridges scored a two-pointer, and the third quarter ended with a 92-91 lead for the Spurs. Now, the most exciting twelve minutes of the game were about to start.

Within the first four minutes, the Spurs extended their lead by seven points. Thanks to two-pointers by Wembanyama, Keldon Johnson, and two free throws by De'Aaron Fox. Knicks tried fighting back, but nothing was strong enough to stop Wembanyama. The duo of Anunoby and Brunson tried their best to minimize the lead but couldn't succeed. The closest they could get was two-points behind. The buzzer buzzed, and the Spurs won the match 115-111.

Also read || Knicks vs Clippers: Knicks Lose 118-126 Thriller

Spurs vs Knicks: What to expect at NBA Finals Game 4

MSG Stadium
Madison Square Garden was initially designed to host the circus, dog and horse shows, cycling, and some of America's first indoor boxing matches. Credit: Shaun / Unsplash

With Brunson, Towns, and Anunoby in their peak form, the New York Knicks would be aiming for a home victory. Spurs would be high on confidence and would love to disappoint the New Yorkers. However, they're quite dependent on Victor Wembanyama, Castle, and Fox. Overall, both teams look balanced. Both have exceptional forwards and guards.

The key highlight of the game was Victor Wembanyama's 32 points, 8 rebounds, and 6 assists, which sealed the game for the San Antonio Spurs. On the other hand, Jalen Brunson was phenomenal for the Knicks with his 32 points in 35 minutes, along with 5 rebounds and 5 assists. 

Would the New York Knicks make their fans happy, or would it be another NBA Finals disappointment after 27 years? Time will tell. Stay tuned to your NBA app or Amazon Prime Video to witness the NBA Finals Game 4 on Thursday, June 11, 2026 at 7:30 PM EST.

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