New York Knicks secure comeback win over San Antonio Spurs in NBA Finals
The New York Knicks erased a 14-point second-half deficit to beat the San Antonio Spurs 105-95 in Game 1 of the NBA Finals on Wednesday.
Jalen Brunson scored 30 points to guide the Eastern Conference champions to their 12th consecutive playoff victory.
Karl-Anthony Towns contributed 18 points and 12 rebounds, while OG Anunoby added 17 points for the visitors.
Victor Wembanyama registered 26 points and 12 rebounds for the hosts but struggled offensively, shooting just six of 21 from the field in his finals debut.
Knicks make history with comeback
The Texas franchise took a 55-48 lead into the half-time break and extended their advantage to 14 points midway through the third quarter.
However, the visitors stormed back with a 22-9 run to level the score at 76-76 heading into the final period.
Wembanyama gave the home side a 95-94 advantage with two minutes remaining, but Brunson responded with a crucial three-pointer to put New York ahead for good.
The New York outfit closed out the contest on an 11-0 run, becoming the seventh side in NBA history to win 12 successive postseason games.
Spurs surrender perfect Game 1 record
The defeat marks the first time San Antonio have ever lost a Game 1 in the title series, having boasted a flawless 6-0 record prior to Wednesday’s encounter.
It is also the first time the five-time NBA champions have trailed in a finals series before its conclusion.
San Antonio’s record of never trailing in a finals series had previously survived close calls against New Jersey in 2003, Detroit in 2005, and Miami in both 2013 and 2014.
Rookie Stephon Castle scored 17 points for the Spurs, with Julian Champagnie and Dylan Harper both adding 16.
Former San Antonio coach Gregg Popovich watched from a suite, joined by franchise legends including David Robinson, Tim Duncan and Manu Ginobili.
Game 2 takes place in Texas on Friday.