How Knicks flipped the script on the fluke that put NBA Finals at risk

After Game 3, the Knicks stressed that their defensive shortcomings, in particular missing assignments and not being as connected, had to be corrected.It took them a half, but they found their defensive mojo in time.After getting tattooed for 76 first-half points the Knicks shut down the Spurs over the final 24 minutes, keying the greatest comeback in NBA Finals history, a hard-to-believe 107-106 victory.Over the last 6:24, they held the Spurs to seven points, moving to within one win over their first championship in 53 years.“Really, we didn’t change much.

We basically kept the same game plan,” coach Mike Brown said.“But defensively, we just did it [better] for longer stretches, and we were really in tune to what we were supposed to be doing.

Our level of physicality increased without sending them to the free throw line, as well, which is huge.”San Antonio put on a shooting display in the first half, making 14 3-pointers in 26 attempts.Some of it was impressive shot-making, but a lot of it was the Knicks’ inability to defend the Spurs.

There were so many open looks from deep, partly due to the Knicks overcommitting to Victor Wembanyama.But their inability to stop the ball was particularly evident.

The Spurs had 17 assists in the first half and plenty of balance, four players with at least 13 points.“We needed to show them that first half was a fluke,” Jose Alvarado said.They certainly did.The second half was a vastly different story.

The Spurs were limited to 30 points, committed nine turnovers and shot 3-of-17 from 3-point range.“Our contests were better, just one percent better,” OG Anunoby said.“Getting out faster and then finishing possessions with rebounds.” Own this piece of history with our cover celebrating the Knicks’ sweep over the Cavs.

If you’re a Knicks fan and a Post fan, get in the game with this jersey inspired by our May 20, 2026 cover.Show the boys some love as they face off against the Spu...