Knicks Dominate Spurs, Ending Historic Run

The New York Knicks defeated the San Antonio Spurs 114-89 on Sunday, bringing an end to the Spurs’ impressive 11-game winning streak. Mikal Bridges led the Knicks with 25 points, although Jalen Brunson added 24.

The Spurs, who had been undefeated in February, struggled to discover their rhythm against the Knicks’ physical defense. Victor Wembanyama led San Antonio with 25 points and 13 rebounds, but turned the ball over seven times.

Towns’ Defense Shuts Down Wembanyama

A key factor in the Knicks’ victory was the defensive performance of Karl-Anthony Towns, who was tasked with guarding Victor Wembanyama. The Spurs shot just 14% from three-point range when Towns was guarding Wembanyama.

“For myself, I was especially hesitant on threes for some reason,”

Victor Wembanyama

Wembanyama acknowledged the Knicks’ physicality impacted the Spurs’ shooting. The Spurs finished the game shooting 26% from beyond the arc.

Spurs’ Streak and First-Half Struggles

The Spurs’ 11-game winning streak was their longest since a 13-0 run in the 2015-16 season. They had been the first team in NBA history to move unbeaten and score at least 110 points in every game while playing at least 10 in a month, going 11-0 in February.

San Antonio started strong, building a 19-7 lead, but the Knicks responded with a 26-2 run spanning the first and second quarters to take control of the game. The Spurs were held to their lowest point total of the season.

Key Stats and Team Performance

• Mikal Bridges (NYK): 25 points
• Jalen Brunson (NYK): 24 points
• Victor Wembanyama (SAS): 25 points, 13 rebounds
• Devin Vassell (SAS): 18 points
• Stephon Castle (SAS): 13 points

The Knicks had six players score in double figures, showcasing their balanced attack. The Spurs struggled with turnovers, committing a season-high 22, which the Knicks converted into 24 points.

Looking Ahead

The Knicks’ victory demonstrates their strong form, while the Spurs’ loss serves as a reminder of the challenges of maintaining a long winning streak.

“We gave them life,”

Victor Wembanyama

Wembanyama stated the Spurs should have performed better, especially during the Knicks’ first-quarter run.