NEW YORK — The San Antonio Spurs breathed new life into the 2026 NBA Finals on Monday night, defeating the New York Knicks, 113-108, in a tense Game 3 battle at Madison Square Garden to trim the Knicks’ series lead to 2-1. (The Guardian)

Facing the possibility of falling into a nearly insurmountable 3-0 hole, the young Spurs delivered their most complete performance of the series, with star center Victor Wembanyama leading the charge.

Wembanyama erupted for 32 points while anchoring San Antonio’s defense throughout the night. Rookie standout Stephon Castle provided an early spark, scoring 18 first-half points to keep the Spurs within striking distance despite a strong Knicks rally before halftime. (The Guardian)

The Knicks, playing their first NBA Finals home game in 27 years, appeared poised to seize full control of the championship series behind another strong outing from Jalen Brunson. However, San Antonio repeatedly answered New York’s runs in a game that remained close until the final seconds. (The Guardian)

With the score hanging in the balance, veteran guard De’Aaron Fox delivered the game’s biggest shot, sinking a step-back jumper with 12 seconds remaining to give the Spurs the cushion they needed to secure the victory. (The Guardian)

The loss marked the Knicks’ first defeat of the NBA Finals after opening the series with back-to-back victories in San Antonio. Despite the setback, New York still holds a 2-1 advantage in the best-of-seven championship series. (The Guardian)

Game 4 will again be played at Madison Square Garden, where the Knicks will attempt to regain momentum and move within one win of their first NBA championship since 1973. The Spurs, meanwhile, will look to build on their breakthrough performance and even the series at two games apiece. (The Guardian)