The 2026 NBA Finals continue with a crucial Game 3 as the San Antonio Spurs welcome the New York Knicks to the AT&T Center. After splitting the first two games in New York, the series now shifts to Texas, where the Spurs will look to capitalize on home-court advantage. The Knicks, meanwhile, aim to regain momentum on the road.
First Quarter Action
The game started with high intensity, as both teams traded baskets early. Spurs' star guard De'Aaron Fox opened the scoring with a pull-up jumper, but Knicks' forward Julius Randle responded with a powerful dunk. The first quarter saw a back-and-forth affair, with San Antonio taking a slim 28-26 lead after 12 minutes. Key contributions came from Spurs' center Victor Wembanyama, who blocked two shots and grabbed five rebounds.
Second Quarter Surge
In the second quarter, the Knicks' bench provided a spark. Guard Jalen Brunson scored eight straight points, including two three-pointers, to give New York a 44-40 lead. However, the Spurs rallied behind veteran point guard Chris Paul, who orchestrated the offense and found Wembanyama for an alley-oop dunk. At halftime, the score was tied at 56-56.
Third Quarter Dominance
The Spurs came out strong in the third quarter, outscoring the Knicks 32-20. Fox was unstoppable, scoring 14 points in the period, while Wembanyama continued to protect the rim. New York struggled offensively, shooting just 35% from the field. San Antonio took a commanding 88-76 lead into the final quarter.
Fourth Quarter Comeback Attempt
The Knicks refused to go quietly. Randle and Brunson combined for 15 points early in the fourth, cutting the deficit to 98-94 with five minutes remaining. But the Spurs' defense tightened, forcing two crucial turnovers. With 1:30 left, Fox hit a step-back three to seal the game. Final score: San Antonio 112, New York 102.
Key Performances
- De'Aaron Fox (SAS): 34 points, 7 assists, 4 rebounds
- Victor Wembanyama (SAS): 18 points, 14 rebounds, 5 blocks
- Julius Randle (NYK): 26 points, 10 rebounds
- Jalen Brunson (NYK): 24 points, 8 assists
Series Outlook
With the win, the Spurs take a 2-1 lead in the best-of-seven series. Game 4 will be played in San Antonio on Thursday. The Knicks will need to adjust their game plan to contain Fox and Wembanyama, while the Spurs aim to extend their advantage before the series returns to New York.
