The Knicks had a stranglehold on game two of the NBA Finals, let go of the rope in the fourth quarter, and took it right back.
Now, they're taking a 2-0 series lead back to Madison Square Garden.
New York coughed up a 14-point lead in the fourth quarter and fell behind in the closing minutes of a physical, hard-fought game two in San Antonio, but a costly miscue by Victor Wembanyama allowed the Knicks to escape with a commanding series lead, New York now just two wins away from its first championship since 1973.
With the game tied and the Spurs grabbing possession, Wembanyama tossed an outlet pass to Stephon Castle, only Castle was looking towards the Knicks basket. The pass hit Castle in the back, Jalen Brunson grabbed the loose ball, and was fouled by Wembanyama, sending Brunson to the line where he sank one of two free throws to give the Knicks the 105-104 win.
Wembanyama, who was otherwise fantastic during San Antonio's fourth-quarter surge, then missed the potential game-winning jumper from the elbow as time expired, leaving the several Knicks fans in attendance to breathe a massive sigh of relief.
Karl-Anthony Towns and Mikal Bridges carried the offensive load in what was an off night for Brunson, though he hit a critical game-tying jumper in the final minute of play when the game seemed to be slipping away. But the Knicks survived the desperation rally by the Spurs, and are in complete control heading back home, where a raucous MSG awaits.
Game three is Monday night at 8:30 p.m.
New York escaped after a furious Spurs rally put game two in the balance.
New York escaped after a furious Spurs rally put game two in the balance.
