Knicks need a quick response from first loss since April as the Spurs try to even the NBA Finals

Knicks must respond quickly after their first postseason loss since April as the Spurs bid to even the NBA Finals in Game 4 on Wednesday. New York holds a 2-1 series lead after San Antonio’s 115-111 victory in Game 3, where Victor Wembanyama produced 32 points, eight rebounds, six assists and three blocks. The road teams have claimed all three games thus far, heightening the urgency for the Knicks to protect Madison Square Garden, a Finals venue not visited since 1999. If San Antonio were to win the championship, it would mark the first title by a team that started 0-2 in its own building. Knicks coach Mike Brown stressed the group is not panicking, noting that while the performance fell short of their standards, the team is focused on improvement. Brunson emphasized ongoing growth and unity, saying the Knicks will stay together and elevate their play. Stephen Castle contributed 23 points for the Spurs in Game 3, underscoring the Spurs’ belief they can complete the upset. The Knicks must convert their late-season momentum into sharper execution in Game 4 to preserve their title chances.