The New York Knicks held off a determined comeback by the San Antonio Spurs to secure a 105-104 victory in Game 2 of the NBA Finals. This win extends the Knicks’ playoff winning streak to 13 games, the second-longest in NBA playoff history. With a 2-0 lead in the series, the Knicks are now just two victories away from claiming their first championship since 1973.
Game Highlights
The game was a showcase of two top-tier teams, with the Spurs initially taking control with a 35-24 lead. However, the Knicks, led by Karl-Anthony Towns, surged back in the second quarter. Towns, who scored 17 points in the first half, helped New York take their first lead of the game late in the second quarter. The Knicks entered halftime with a four-point advantage and extended their lead to 10 points early in the third quarter.
Despite the Knicks’ strong performance, the Spurs, led by Victor Wembanyama, mounted a comeback. Wembanyama scored 12 of his 29 points in the third quarter, capitalizing on Towns’ foul trouble. The Spurs managed to tie the game at 97 in the fourth quarter after a 14-0 run, but the Knicks responded with crucial plays from Jalen Brunson and Mikal Bridges.
Final Moments
In the closing seconds, a missed shot by Brunson led to a turnover by Wembanyama, giving the Knicks a chance to regain the lead. Brunson made one of two free throws, setting the stage for a final Spurs possession. Wembanyama’s last-second jumper missed, securing the win for New York. Towns finished the game with 21 points and 13 rebounds, while Brunson and Bridges each contributed 20 points.
Reflecting on the game, Towns, who lost his mother during the Covid-19 pandemic, shared a poignant moment, looking to the sky for guidance. He expressed gratitude for what he saw as a sign of his mother’s presence during the game’s critical moments.
Game 3 is set for Monday at Madison Square Garden in New York, with President Donald Trump expected to attend.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.