Full Breakdown
Knicks Erase 29-Point Deficit to Take 3-1 Lead in 2026 NBA Finals
6/11/2026, 7:56:18 AM
Historic Comeback Secures 3-1 Lead
On June 10, 2026, the New York Knicks beat the San Antonio Spurs 107–106 in Game 4 of the NBA Finals, erasing a 29-point deficit—the largest Finals comeback since detailed play-by-play began, and giving New York a 3-1 series lead, one win away from its first title since 1973.
Series Background
The series was tied 2-2 after the Spurs won Game 3 in New York. A 13-game Knicks winning streak had ended in Game 3, and the Spurs entered Game 4 holding the largest road-team halftime lead in Finals history.
Key Performances
Jalen Brunson posted 36 points and seven assists, first player since 2017 with Finals games of 30+ points, 5+ rebounds and 5+ assists. OG Anunoby added 33 points on 7-of-9 shooting and made the winning tip-in. Victor Wembanyama led San Antonio with 24 points, 13 rebounds and three blocks.
Timeline of the Rally
Spurs led 41-22 after the first quarter, 76-49 at halftime and 81-52 in the third; a 13-0 Knicks run cut the gap to 90-75. In fourth, Brunson’s layup with 1:22 left gave a 105-104 lead. Castle’s free throws restored a 106-105 lead; Anunoby’s tip-in with 1.2 seconds secured a 107-106 win.
Statistics
Spurs set record with 14 first-half three-pointers and 76 points before second half, a 46-point swing—the half-to-half decline in era. Knicks outscored Spurs 58-30 after halftime. Chance rose from 0.4 % in fourth to Knicks win.
Official Statements & Responses
Knicks coach Mike Brown praised resilience, calling the tip-in “the biggest play in Knicks history.” Spurs coach Mitch Johnson called the loss “disappointing” and cited missed shots. Anunoby emphasized “doing what it takes to win.” Wembanyama said Spurs “were not most hungry” in the second half but would not change his approach.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We got on our heels — we missed some shots,” — Mitch Johnson, Spurs head coach
- “Just doing what it takes to win. Our thing is crashing the glass … I just tried to make a play. … We’re resilient,” — OG Anunoby, Knicks forward
- “Of course, I’m going to be more careful. But it’s not going to change much,” — Victor Wembanyama, Spurs forward
- “I think it began before (the fourth quarter),” — Victor Wembanyama, Spurs forward
Criticism & Opposition
Manu Ginóbili criticized officiating for not calling a Brunson altercation. Knicks received fouls for hitting Wembanyama, and fans booed star during warm-ups.
On-the-Ground Reactions
Fans sang Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’” after the win. Celebrities Taylor Swift, Spike Lee and Larry David were in arena.
Conflicting Reports
Sources differ on margin—report a 27-point lead (76-49), others a 29-point lead (81-52) after third. Timing of 14 three-pointers varies.
What’s Next
Game 5 on June 13 at Frost Bank Center in San Antonio. Knicks aim to clinch; Spurs must win three straight to force Game 7.
