NBA Finals Game 3: Knicks Lead Spurs

June 08, 2026  |  By NBC News

The New York Knicks are leading the series against the San Antonio Spurs 2-0 as they head into Game 3 on Monday. The match is set for 8:30 p.m. ET at Madison Square Garden, New York City. You can catch the game on ABC or stream on ESPN+.

Game Highlights

Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio’s standout player, started strong by scoring twice near the basket. He’s maintained a focus on close-range plays. His defensive skills are evident with a blocked 3-pointer. As a result, San Antonio holds a 9-5 lead, three minutes into the game.

Game 3 Begins

After a long wait, Game 3 has commenced at Madison Square Garden. The excitement is palpable as New York hosts their first Finals game since 1999. The Spurs gained initial possession after winning the tip-off.

Presidential Attendance

President Donald Trump appeared on the jumbotron and faced mostly boos from the crowd during the national anthem. He was seen smiling and saluting. Noticeably, the crowd erupted in cheers in favor of the Knicks immediately after.

Knicks’ Performance

Karl-Anthony Towns is having a stellar Finals performance, being considered a strong MVP candidate. He scored 21 points and grabbed 13 rebounds in the previous game. His formidable defense on Wembanyama has been crucial, along with Jalen Brunson and Mikal Bridges’ contributions.

Celebrity Presence

Celebrity sightings at Madison Square Garden included Timothée Chalamet and Ben Stiller, adding to the high-profile atmosphere. Chalamet, known for his role in “Dune,” and Stiller were welcomed together on the videoboard.

Long Wait Times

Heightened security measures caused long lines. Fans and media members faced delays entering the venue due to President Trump’s attendance. Employees reported significant delays, some arriving hours after their usual times.

Spurs’ Challenges

The Spurs need resilience to recover from their 0-2 deficit. Star player Victor Wembanyama acknowledges the need for strategic improvements to leverage their efforts better. The team aims to focus on the game ahead to prevent a Knicks series sweep.

Fundraising and Community Support

The Knicks auctioned two celebrity row seats for $1 million. This record-breaking donation supports the Garden of Dreams Foundation, highlighting the community’s love for Knicks basketball.

Meanwhile, Knicks legends like Patrick Ewing and comedian Tracy Morgan are engaging with fans and supporting local initiatives. They surprised attendees with tickets for the Finals games at Madison Square Garden.

Knicks Momentum

New York’s consistent performance has contributed to their dominant position in the Finals. They will aim to capitalize on their home advantage and retain their winning streak.

Spurs’ Strategy

The Spurs, seeking guidance from former coach Gregg Popovich, gathered for a closed-door meeting after a prior loss. Popovich emphasized the need for improved play, encouraging the team to strategize effectively for future games.

The upcoming hours will determine if the Spurs manage to shift the momentum in their favor. The intensity is high as both teams approach this crucial point in the series.