Spurs get back into NBA Finals with Game 3 win over Knicks

NEW YORK – The San Antonio Spurs held off a late rally by the New York Knicks to win Game 3 115-111 at Madison Square Garden on Monday night, getting themselves back into the series in the process.

Why it matters: Facing an 0-2 deficit in the NBA Finals, San Antonio responded with its most complete performance of the series.

By the numbers:

• Victor Wembanyama led the Spurs with 32 points, eight rebounds and six assists.
• Stephon Castle added 23 points, five rebounds and five assists.
• San Antonio shot efficiently throughout the night and outscored New York 35-28 in the third quarter.
• The win snapped the Knicks' postseason winning streak and cut the series deficit to 2-1.

What happened:

• The Spurs jumped out to an early double-digit lead behind aggressive offense and strong defensive energy.
• New York answered with a dominant second quarter, scoring 42 points to erase the deficit and take control before halftime.
• San Antonio regrouped after the break, with Wembanyama and Castle fueling a decisive third-quarter surge.
• The Knicks made multiple late runs, but the Spurs executed down the stretch and knocked down key free throws to seal the victory.

The turning point: After surrendering momentum in the second quarter, San Antonio responded with its best stretch of the Finals in the third, reclaiming the lead and forcing New York to play from behind for much of the second half.

What they're saying: The Spurs entered Game 3 emphasizing desperation after dropping the first two games at home. That urgency showed in their defensive intensity and physicality throughout the night.

Between the lines: Unlike Games 1 and 2, San Antonio didn't wilt when the Knicks made their inevitable runs. Every New York rally was met with a timely basket or defensive stop.

What's next: The Spurs will try to even the series when Game 4 tips off Wednesday night at Madison Square Garden. The Knicks still lead the Finals 2-1.