The 2026 NBA Finals opened with a dramatic comeback as the New York Knicks stunned the San Antonio Spurs 105-95 in Game 1 at Frost Bank Center on Wednesday night. Powered by a clutch fourth-quarter performance from Jalen Brunson, the Knicks erased a double-digit deficit and finished the game on an impressive 11-0 run to take a 1-0 lead in the best-of-seven championship series.
New York is now just three victories away from capturing its first NBA championship since 1973, while San Antonio will look to regroup before Game 2.
Knicks Rally from 14 Points Down
For much of the evening, the Spurs appeared to be in control. San Antonio built momentum behind strong performances from rookie guard Dylan Harper and forward Julian Champagnie, taking a seven-point advantage into halftime.
The Knicks struggled offensively during stretches of the first half, and star guard Jalen Brunson battled through minor knee and ankle discomfort. However, New York showed resilience after the break, gradually cutting into the Spurs’ lead during the third quarter.
The turning point came in the final period when Brunson began aggressively attacking the basket and creating scoring opportunities. Although San Antonio answered with a late 9-0 run fueled by Victor Wembanyama, Brunson responded with a crucial corner three-pointer that shifted momentum back to New York.
From that moment, the Knicks controlled the closing minutes and sealed a memorable road victory.
Jalen Brunson Leads the Way
Brunson once again proved why he has been one of the NBA’s most valuable postseason performers. Despite shooting challenges early in the game, he finished with a game-high 30 points on 12-of-31 shooting.
Karl-Anthony Towns delivered a strong supporting performance with 18 points and 12 rebounds, recording a double-double while battling San Antonio’s frontcourt throughout the night.
Josh Hart contributed in multiple areas, leading the Knicks with 15 rebounds while also dishing out six assists. His energy and hustle played a major role in New York’s second-half comeback.
New York Knicks Leaders
- Points: Jalen Brunson (30)
- Rebounds: Josh Hart (15)
- Assists: Josh Hart (6)
Wembanyama Shines Despite Defeat
The Spurs received another outstanding performance from Victor Wembanyama, who finished with 26 points and 12 rebounds. The young superstar dominated stretches of the game and helped San Antonio maintain control for much of the contest.
De’Aaron Fox added five assists and helped orchestrate the offense, but the Spurs struggled to generate consistent scoring during the closing minutes as New York’s defense tightened.
San Antonio Spurs Leaders
- Points: Victor Wembanyama (26)
- Rebounds: Victor Wembanyama (12)
- Assists: De’Aaron Fox (5)
NBA Finals 2026 Game 1 Score Summary
Final Score:
New York Knicks 105, San Antonio Spurs 95
Quarter Scores:
- First Quarter: Knicks 19, Spurs 27
- Second Quarter: Knicks 29, Spurs 28
- Third Quarter: Knicks 28, Spurs 21
- Fourth Quarter: Knicks 29, Spurs 19
Series Status:
New York Knicks lead the NBA Finals series 1-0.
Game Information
- Date: June 3, 2026
- Venue: Frost Bank Center, San Antonio, Texas
- Attendance: 18,835
- Television: ABC
Referees
- Scott Foster (#48)
- James Capers (#19)
- Sean Wright (#4)
Looking Ahead to Game 2
The Knicks have stolen home-court advantage and gained early control of the NBA Finals. Their ability to overcome adversity on the road highlights the confidence and toughness that have defined their postseason run.
Meanwhile, the Spurs must find answers defensively and improve their late-game execution if they hope to even the series. With Victor Wembanyama continuing to play at an elite level, San Antonio remains a dangerous opponent despite the Game 1 setback.
Game 2 promises another exciting battle as the Spurs attempt to bounce back and the Knicks aim to move one step closer to an historic NBA championship.