The New York Knicks entered Game 1 of this year's NBA Finals on one of the hottest streaks in playoff history: 11 consecutive wins, with opponents humiliated, humbled, and crushed along the way. On Wednesday night in San Antonio, many believed that streak would end as they faced the Spurs, who had knocked out the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder in the previous round and are led by the most exciting player in the world, Victor Wembanyama.
The Knicks won anyway, keeping Wembanyama quiet for long stretches in a 105-95 victory on the Spurs' home court. They are now just three wins from their first title since 1973. Jalen Brunson, an inspiration for the Knicks throughout these playoffs, came alive once again when it mattered, saving his best for the closing minutes and ending the game with 30 points, 13 of them coming in the fourth quarter.
