The New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs are preparing for Game 4 of the NBA Finals, with the road team having won the previous three games. The Knicks can take a 3-1 series lead with a win on Wednesday.
The outcome of Game 4 is critical for the Knicks' championship aspirations, as a win would put them on the verge of their first title since 1973. The series' unusual pattern of road team dominance adds intrigue, with Wembanyama's performance potentially shifting the momentum.
The New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs are preparing for Game 4 of the NBA Finals, with the series having seen a unique trend of road teams winning each of the first three contests. The Knicks have an opportunity to take a commanding 3-1 lead if they secure a victory on Wednesday night.
San Antonio's 7-foot-4 center Victor Wembanyama powered the Spurs to a Game 3 win on Monday, contributing 32 points, eight rebounds, six assists, and three blocked shots. This marked the third consecutive victory by the road team in the series, a rare occurrence in NBA Finals history, with the only other instance being the 1993 Chicago Bulls vs. Phoenix Suns series. Michael Jordan eventually broke that streak by leading the Bulls to a Game 4 victory on their home court.
Wembanyama's performance in New York has already drawn attention, including an incident where he made contact with Jalen Brunson's head. The NBA's decision not to assess a flagrant foul means Wembanyama is likely to face increased animosity from Knicks fans at Madison Square Garden. Teammate De’Aaron Fox commented on the physicality of the game, suggesting that Wembanyama's actions are a response to the treatment he receives on the court.
Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns acknowledged the Spurs' effectiveness in dictating the game's tempo and stated the need for the Knicks to be more aggressive. If the Knicks win Game 4, Game 5 will be in San Antonio, followed by a potential Game 6 back in New York.