New York Knicks edge San Antonio Spurs in thriller to take command of NBA Finals lead

New York Knicks edged past the San Antonio Spurs 105-104 in a dramatic finish to Game 2 of the NBA Finals here at Frost Bank Center on Saturday, taking a 2-0 series lead as they move within reach of a first championship in 53 years.

In a tense closing stretch, Jalen Brunson proved decisive once again. With just nine and a half seconds remaining, he intercepted possession after Spurs star Victor Wembanyama overthrew a pass intended for team-mate Stephon Castle.

Wembanyama then committed a foul on Brunson, who calmly converted from the free-throw line to secure the Knicks the winning point.

There was still time for the Spurs to respond, but Wembanyama’s 20-foot effort at the buzzer failed to drop, allowing New York to extend their remarkable run to 13 consecutive play-off victories.

The French centre, who has been central to the Finals narrative, endured a mixed night.

After a quiet first half, he sparked a Spurs resurgence with 22 second-half points, helping them erase a double-digit deficit and briefly seize momentum in the final quarter. However, his late turnover ultimately proved costly.

Wembanyama accepted responsibility for the costly turnover, saying he will learn from the mistake and use it as motivation for the next game.

“I threw that [misplaced pass] away. I messed up,” Wembanyama admitted afterwards.

“Am I going to regret it? Yes, of course. Am I going to use that to fuel me and to fuel us next game? Absolutely.”

Game 3 will take place in New York on Monday at Madison Square Garden, with US President Donald Trump expected to attend as the Knicks chase their first title since 1973.