Daijiworld Media Network – New York

New York, Jun 9: Victor Wembanyama delivered a stellar all-round performance as the San Antonio Spurs defeated the New York Knicks 115-111 at Madison Square Garden on Monday night, cutting the deficit to 2-1 in the NBA Finals series.

With the championship clash returning to Madison Square Garden for the first time in 27 years, Wembanyama rose to the occasion, finishing with 32 points, eight rebounds, six assists, three blocks and two steals. The French star also scored 10 points in the final quarter to help the Spurs secure a crucial victory.

“We’ve done what we were supposed to do, but the job is absolutely not done. We’re not even halfway. The hardest is yet to come,” Wembanyama said after the match.

Reflecting on the team's improvement following its Game 2 defeat, he added, “Less mistakes, more control. It’s the little things. We were more serious, with fewer turnovers.”

Stephon Castle provided strong support with 23 points, while Dylan Harper contributed 13 points off the bench.

Praising Castle's contribution, Wembanyama said, “He has got great poise. It’s hard to put into words how valuable he is to us.”

Spurs coach Mitch Johnson lauded Wembanyama’s response under pressure, saying, “I’m sure Victor has numerous sources of motivation. I don’t think any of us are surprised or expect anything different than a strong performance.”

For New York, Jalen Brunson scored 32 points and OG Anunoby added 28, but the Knicks were unable to extend their 13-game winning streak, which ended two victories short of the NBA postseason record.

The atmosphere inside Madison Square Garden was electric, with several celebrities and political figures in attendance, including Donald Trump, who was reportedly booed by sections of the crowd when shown on the arena’s video screens during the national anthem.

The Spurs will now look to level the series when Game 4 is played on Wednesday, while the Knicks continue their pursuit of a first NBA title since 1973.