Timothée Chalamet Wears Exclusive New York Knicks-Themed Bape Sneakers at NBA Finals During the New York Knicks’ historic NBA championship win on Saturday, standout sneaker moments captivated fans and players alike, with several exclusive pairs making headlines. Among the most notable was a pair of custom Bape Bape Sta sneakers gifted to Timothée Chalamet, a lifelong Knicks fan. The sneakers, designed in collaboration with the A Bathing Ape brand, featured a unique color scheme inspired by the team’s orange-and-blue identity. Chalamet, who typically opts for Chrome Hearts-customized Timberlands while seated in Madison Square Garden’s Celebrity Row, chose a sportier look for the series-clinching game. The sneakers, described as one-of-a-kind, included two distinct designs. One pair showcased a home-themed combination of white, orange, and blue, while the other featured a black base with blue overlays and orange branding. These pieces were shared on Instagram by Kevin Le, the brand’s partnerships manager, who confirmed they were exclusively crafted for Chalamet. The sneakers lacked official Knicks branding, instead relying on Bape Sta’s signature Ape head heel stamp, metal hardware, and bold star logo to convey the team’s colors and identity. Chalamet’s choice of footwear was part of a broader trend of exclusive sneaker collaborations during the NBA Finals. Iconic Knicks fan Spike Lee also made headlines for his custom Air Jordan 3s, which he wore during Game 5. Lee had previously received a pair of mismatched Air Jordan 3s ahead of Game 3, and his latest pair featured matching Knicks blue. These custom designs highlighted the personal connections between athletes, fans, and sneaker brands during the high-stakes event.#new_york_knicks #timothe_chalamet #air_jordan_3 #bape_sta #kevin_le
Trump Faces Thunderous Boos at NBA Finals Amid Security Measures and Political Tensions President Donald Trump was met with “thunderous” boos from New York Knicks fans during Game 3 of the NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden on June 8, 2026, as he attended the first Finals game in New York since 1999. The event, which drew heightened security and political scrutiny, saw Trump, a lifelong Knicks fan, watch the San Antonio Spurs defeat the Knicks 115-111, cutting the Knicks’ series lead to 2-1. The president’s appearance, which was arranged by Knicks owner James Dolan, sparked widespread debate over the impact of his presence on the game and the broader political climate. Security measures for the event were unprecedented, with multiple checkpoints, bag bans, and road closures enforced to ensure the safety of the president. Fans without tickets were barred from entering the area around Madison Square Garden, and all attendees were required to undergo airport-style security screening. The Secret Service deployed counter-drone technology and heavily armed agents to protect Trump, reflecting the heightened threat environment following three alleged assassination attempts against him in the past two years. “The Secret Service’s focus is straightforward: to ensure everyone attending the game can enjoy the game and have a safe experience,” said Special Agent Matt McCool. The president’s arrival at the venue was met with visible resistance from some fans. As his motorcade approached, protesters held signs reading “Trump must go” and raised middle fingers toward the vehicles. During the national anthem, Trump appeared on the Jumbotron in an executive suite near midcourt, where he was greeted with a chorus of boos.#donald_trump #madison_square_garden #new_york_knicks #san_antonio_spurs #james_dolan
Knicks WAGs Balance Style and Simplicity as Team Eyes Championship The New York Knicks, aiming for their first NBA Championship since 1973, have become a focal point for fashion enthusiasts across New York City. From celebrity fans like Timothée Chalamet and Kylie Jenner to bedazzled jerseys at watch parties, the team’s signature orange-and-blue colors dominate the city’s streets. However, the wives and girlfriends of the Knicks’ players, known as the Women’s Athletic Group (WAGs), have carved out their own distinct approach to game-day style, blending simplicity with the team’s vibrant palette. Shannon Hart, wife of Knicks guard Josh Hart, emphasizes a relaxed, balanced aesthetic. The 31-year-old registered nurse avoids over-the-top outfits, opting for neutral bottoms paired with orange tanks to create a cohesive look. “I like to have a good flow and I don’t like too much going on,” she explains. Her approach mirrors that of Ali Brunson, wife of guard Jalen Brunson, who favors a “Canadian tuxedo” style—jeans on top and bottom. Both women prioritize comfort and practicality, reflecting their roles as mothers to young children while supporting their husbands’ careers. The WAGs’ fashion choices have become a blueprint for fans attending games, with their outfits serving as a guide for how to dress for the event. Hart, who has nearly 200,000 Instagram followers, advises fans not to overthink their attire. “You don’t have to do too much,” she says. “Just look cute, simple, sporty. You can wear sneakers.” This philosophy aligns with the Madison Square Garden atmosphere, where fans are encouraged to dress comfortably without strict dress codes. Custom jerseys and accessories play a significant role in the WAGs’ game-day looks.#madison_square_garden #new_york_knicks #jalen_brunson #shannon_hart #ali_brunson
Stephen A. Smith Blames Donald Trump for Knicks' Finals Struggles Stephen A. Smith reiterated his claim that President Donald Trump was responsible for the New York Knicks’ struggles in the NBA Finals during a heated exchange on Sean Hannity’s Fox News show. Hannity challenged Smith’s assertion that Trump’s presence at Game 3 of the finals against the San Antonio Spurs had disrupted the Knicks’ momentum. Smith defended his position, arguing that Trump’s attendance at the game had poisoned the team’s “mojo” and jeopardized their chances of winning the championship. Smith described Trump’s visit to Manhattan as a public relations disaster, citing widespread boos from fans as his motorcade approached Madison Square Garden and during the national anthem. He also criticized the president’s appearance on the Jumbotron during the game, which he claimed tarnished the Knicks’ atmosphere. “He had no business at that game,” Smith said, emphasizing that Trump’s presence disrupted the team’s positive energy and 13-game winning streak. The feud between Smith and Trump escalated after the Knicks lost Game 3, prompting Smith to publicly blame the president. During the Hannity interview, Hannity dismissed Smith’s claims as irrational, suggesting the commentator had “lost his mind” for blaming Trump if the Knicks lost the finals. Smith responded by accusing Hannity of not understanding sports, stating, “You don’t know sports! You don’t understand.” He argued that Trump’s actions had disrupted the Knicks’ momentum, which he believed was critical to their success. Smith’s criticism of Trump intensified after the Knicks staged a dramatic comeback to win Game 4, 107-106. He maintained that if the Knicks had lost the game, the blame would still fall on Trump.#donald_trump #madison_square_garden #new_york_knicks #san_antonio_spurs #stephen_a_smith
Victor Wembanyama Faces Crucial Challenge in NBA Finals as Spurs Seek Comeback The San Antonio Spurs, led by the towering French star Victor Wembanyama, find themselves in a pivotal moment of the NBA Finals as they attempt to overturn a 3-1 deficit against the New York Knicks. The Spurs, who became the first team in NBA Finals history to lead a game by 29 points and still lose, now face an uphill battle to secure a title. Wembanyama, standing at 2.24 meters, remains steadfast in his belief that his team can achieve the unthinkable. The Spurs’ journey to the Finals has been marked by resilience, but their recent struggles in the series have tested their resolve. Despite leading the first four games—by 14, 12, and 29 points respectively—the Spurs have faltered in critical moments, losing each game by narrow margins. The team’s ability to recover from such deficits has been inconsistent, with victories in Games 3 and 4 proving they can adapt. However, the pressure to close out the series looms large, as the Spurs must now win three consecutive games to force a Game 7. Wembanyama, a central figure in the Spurs’ resurgence, has emphasized the importance of focusing on one game at a time. “We need to isolate each matchup and approach it step by step,” he said during a team meeting. “It would be a mistake to exhaust our energy thinking about multiple games. It’s one at a time.” His comments reflect the team’s determination to avoid repeating past mistakes, particularly after the Spurs’ historic Game 4 loss, where they led by 29 points yet fell by just one. The Spurs’ path to the Finals was defined by their ability to overcome adversity. In the Western Conference Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder, they erased a 3-1 series deficit to clinch a spot in the NBA Finals.#new_york_knicks #san_antonio_spurs #victor_wembanyama #stephon_castle #nba_finals
NBA Finals: Knicks Lead Spurs 3-1 in Quest for Title The New York Knicks stand on the brink of their first NBA championship since 1973, holding a 3-1 series advantage over the San Antonio Spurs in the 2025 NBA Finals. The decisive Game 5 is set for Saturday night, with the Knicks aiming to clinch the title in their home arena. The Spurs, led by star forward Victor Wembanyama, have struggled to contain the Knicks’ offensive firepower, which has been a key factor in their recent dominance. The Knicks’ path to the finals has been marked by resilience, particularly in high-stakes moments. This season, they have gone 3-0 in opportunities to close out series, with each victory coming by an average margin of 39.3 points. Notably, all three wins have occurred while playing as the visiting team, a testament to their ability to perform under pressure. Head coach Mike Brown emphasized the mental discipline required to navigate such scenarios, stating, “We’ve been preaching all year that it’s about the next possession, the next possession, the next possession. You understand that every time you try to play a game to close a series, the level of desperation—of your opponents—increases, and the desperation of your opponents’ fans also increases. You have to give your best effort because, even if you give your best effort, it might not happen, especially as a visitor.” The Knicks’ latest display of grit came in Game 4, where they staged an unprecedented comeback to erase a 29-point deficit. Trailing 106-77 in the fourth quarter, New York mounted a furious rally, fueled by a clutch 3-pointer from OG Anunoby with 1.2 seconds remaining. The 107-106 victory marked the largest comeback in NBA Finals history and the most dramatic turnaround of the 2025 season, whether in the regular season or playoffs.#new_york_knicks #san_antonio_spurs #victor_wembanyama #og_anunoby #nba_finals
NYPD Arrests 15 After Chaos at NBA Finals Game 4 The New York Police Department arrested 15 individuals and issued criminal court summonses to another 41 people on Wednesday night following widespread disorder outside Madison Square Garden during and after Game 4 of the NBA Finals. The incident occurred as the New York Knicks secured a dramatic 29-point comeback victory over the San Antonio Spurs, extending their lead in the best-of-seven series to 3-1. The NYPD estimated a crowd of approximately 10,000 gathered near the venue, with officials describing the behavior as “increasingly destructive” as the game progressed. Law enforcement reported multiple incidents of public disorder, including individuals jumping onto vehicles and damaging four NYPD cars, attempts to flip a taxi, and the throwing of glass bottles at officers. Crowds also shut down streets to car traffic, climbed scaffolding, light poles, traffic lights, and buildings, while others broke into a tractor trailer, stole items, and hurled them at police. Ten NYPD officers were injured during the chaos, with one sustaining a head wound from a glass bottle. In a statement released Thursday, the NYPD condemned the reckless actions, emphasizing that the large crowds engaged in “incredibly reckless and dangerous behavior” both during and after the game. The department cited the incident as another example of the need for heightened security measures around Madison Square Garden, which has become a focal point for managing large gatherings during major events. The disturbances followed a pattern of security challenges during the NBA Finals. On Friday, the NYPD had already arrested 17 people after the Knicks’ Game 2 victory in San Antonio.#madison_square_garden #new_york_knicks #san_antonio_spurs #nypd #james_dolan
De’Aaron Fox’s Fateful Decision Haunts the Spurs After Devastating Game 4 Loss The San Antonio Spurs faced a pivotal moment in Game 4 of the NBA Finals against the New York Knicks when De’Aaron Fox’s attempt to secure a game-winning layup was blocked by OG Anunoby. The 107-106 loss, which extended the Knicks’ series lead to 3-1, became a focal point of the Spurs’ struggles, with Fox’s decision to chase the ball down the sideline proving critical. The play unfolded in the final 11 seconds of the game, as Fox, known for his elite speed, believed he could outrun Anunoby to finish the break and give the Spurs a three-point lead. Fox’s plan relied on a misdirection that initially seemed to work. Anunoby, tasked with defending the long rebound off a missed 3-pointer by Jalen Brunson, ran in the wrong direction, allowing Fox to poke the ball past him and sprint toward the basket. Despite a brief stumble when Anunoby bumped him during the sprint, Fox pressed forward, confident in his ability to outmaneuver the Knicks’ wing defender. However, Anunoby quickly recovered, positioning himself to block the layup and sending the Spurs into a spiral. The block, which occurred with 11 seconds remaining, became the catalyst for the Spurs’ downfall. Fox’s post-game explanation centered on his intent to secure the layup and force the Knicks to take a difficult 3-pointer. “I just thought I’d be able to outrun him,” he said, acknowledging the disconnect between his mental preparation and the outcome. The Spurs’ inability to protect their lead, which had been built in all four games of the series, now seemed to hinge on this single moment. Fox’s decision, however, was not without context.#new_york_knicks #de_aaron_fox #san_antonio_spurs #jalen_brunson #og_anunoby
Spurs Coach Mitch Johnson Defends De'Aaron Fox Amid NBA Finals Struggles SAN ANTONIO -- Spurs head coach Mitch Johnson reaffirmed his unwavering support for guard De'Aaron Fox on Friday, despite the player’s struggles in Game 4 of the NBA Finals against the New York Knicks. The loss, which saw San Antonio surrender a 29-point lead and allow the Knicks to stage the largest comeback in NBA Finals history, left Fox in the spotlight for his performance. Johnson emphasized his commitment to the player, stating that his focus remains on the team’s internal perspective rather than external opinions. “I don’t get into social media,” Johnson said. “I think I’ve been fired 212 times, and we’ve traded Fox 72 times. People have their opinions. I don’t care. I care what the people that matter in our building, our organization, in that locker room, that they know how I feel. De'Aaron Fox will have the basketball in his hands at the end of the game tomorrow, and I have the utmost confidence he’s going to deliver like he’s done countless times for us.” Fox’s performance in Game 4 was marred by turnovers and missed opportunities. The Spurs’ guard shot 1-of-5 in the fourth quarter and committed four turnovers, including a critical defensive lapse that allowed Knicks wing OG Anunoby to tip in a Jalen Brunson miss in the final seconds. The play, which capped the Knicks’ historic comeback, left San Antonio trailing 108-107. Fox had the ball with 13.1 seconds left and a one-point lead, but Anunoby’s block set up the game-winning tip. Analysts noted that Fox could have avoided the turnover by holding the ball until a foul, which would have sent him to the free-throw line. Despite the criticism, Fox remained composed, dismissing the noise around him. “It’s not like people have my phone number and can call me,” he said with a smile.#spurs #new_york_knicks #de_aaron_fox #mitch_johnson #og_anunoby
NBA Finals 2026: Ticket Prices for Game 4 Drop Over $10,000 Amid Series Uncertainty Prior to Game 3 of the 2026 NBA Finals, New York Knicks fans were anticipating a potential championship-clinching Game 4 at home, which drove ticket prices to unprecedented levels. The get-in price for Game 4 initially surpassed $13,000, reflecting the heightened anticipation for the Knicks to secure their first title since 1973. However, a decisive Spurs victory in Game 3 shattered those expectations, leading to a dramatic decline in ticket prices for the subsequent matchup against the San Antonio Spurs. By Wednesday, the get-in price for Game 4 had plummeted to $3,368, a drop of $10,703 from its previous level. This sharp decrease surpassed even the four-day price drops seen at Super Bowl LVII, which saw a $2,167 decline, and a Taylor Swift concert in Vancouver in 2024, which recorded a $1,769 drop. The ticket price drop for Game 4 was not entirely unexpected. The Knicks had entered the Finals with high hopes after winning Games 1 and 2, giving them a 2-0 series advantage. However, the Spurs’ Game 3 win extended the series and raised concerns among Knicks fans. Key players like Karl-Anthony Towns struggled to maintain their early-game form, while Spurs star Victor Wembanyama delivered a standout performance, scoring 32 points to lead his team to victory. This shift in momentum likely contributed to the reduced demand for Game 4 tickets. Ticket prices for Game 5 in San Antonio also saw a decline, though the Spurs’ inability to clinch the series in that game may have influenced the drop. Analysts noted that the steep price reduction for Game 4 is likely a temporary fluctuation.#new_york_knicks #san_antonio_spurs #victor_wembanyama #karl_anthony_towns #nba_finals_2026
Knicks Celebrity Row: Exclusive Rules and Perks for A-List Attendees The New York Knicks have become the focal point of NBA fandom this season, with their historic run to the Finals series against the San Antonio Spurs drawing unprecedented attention. The upcoming Games 3 and 4 of the series, set for Madison Square Garden, mark the first time since 1999 that the iconic arena has hosted a championship series game. This milestone has turned the venue into a magnet for celebrities, athletes, and elite fans, with a special section of courtside seats reserved for the most prominent names in entertainment and sports. Among the celebrities securing these coveted spots are actors like Timothée Chalamet, Spike Lee, Ben Stiller, Chris Rock, and Tracy Morgan, who are personally invited by Madison Square Garden. These invitations come with exclusive perks, including access to a private elevator and Suite 200, a luxury space offering gourmet dining and opportunities to mingle with other high-profile guests. However, the privilege of attending these games is not without its own set of unspoken guidelines, designed to maintain the exclusivity and decorum of the experience. One of the most critical rules is that invited celebrities must remain seated for the entire duration of the game, regardless of the outcome. Leaving early, as supermodel Emily Ratajkowski did in 2023, risks losing future invitations, though attendees are still welcome to purchase seats independently. The Garden also expects guests to present themselves in a manner suitable for public viewing, including being showcased on the jumbotron and participating in promotional filming for the venue. Perhaps the most significant rule is the requirement to be a genuine Knicks fan.#madison_square_garden #new_york_knicks #spike_lee #timothe_chalamet #ben_stiller
Knicks Superfan Recalls 1973 NBA Finals Triumph Lavert Henderson-Hobbs, a 78-year-old resident of Rockville Centre, Long Island, vividly remembers the exhilarating moments of the New York Knicks’ 1973 NBA Finals victory. As a devoted fan, she was present at Madison Square Garden during the championship game, an experience she still cherishes despite the decades that have passed. Now, she eagerly awaits the team’s potential return to glory, having remained a steadfast supporter for over five decades. Henderson-Hobbs, who has attended approximately 39 games each year since 1969, estimates she has watched more than 2,000 Knicks matches. Her dedication to the team is unmatched, and she has cultivated a unique perspective on the sport’s evolution. She recalls her early days as a fan, including her first date with her late husband, Ernest, which coincided with a Knicks game. The couple shared season tickets for decades, and one of their cherished mementos is a 1986 ticket priced at just $18—a stark contrast to today’s costs. The 1973 championship remains a defining memory for Henderson-Hobbs. She proudly displayed a ring commemorating the 40th anniversary of that historic win, a symbol of her enduring loyalty. While she acknowledges the team’s struggles over the years, she remains optimistic about their future. “They’re not gonna sweep,” she confidently asserted, referencing her belief that the Knicks would eventually reclaim their title. Her passion for the game transcends mere victory. Henderson-Hobbs expressed admiration for other players, including San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama, emphasizing that talent should be celebrated regardless of team allegiance.#madison_square_garden #new_york_knicks #victor_wembanyama #lavert_hendersonhobbs #rockville_centre
NBA Finals Game 3 Between Knicks and Spurs Draws Record Viewership The New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs delivered a thrilling Game 3 of the 2026 NBA Finals, drawing an average of 23.8 million viewers—marking the most-watched NBA Finals Game 3 since 1998. The matchup, held at Madison Square Garden, also featured the historic presence of U.S. President Donald Trump, who became the first sitting president to attend an NBA Finals game. The event’s significance was amplified by the venue’s return to hosting a Finals game since 1999, creating a unique blend of historical and contemporary spectacle. The Spurs secured a 115-111 victory in Game 3, narrowing their series deficit to 2-1. This win marked the most-watched Game 3 on ABC and ESPN in the league’s history, with viewership numbers surging 159% compared to last year’s Game 3, which saw the Indiana Pacers edge the Oklahoma City Thunder in a 2-1 series lead. The game’s peak viewership reached 26.3 million at 11:15 p.m. E.T., according to Nielsen, which cited its updated methodology combining traditional panel data with smart TV and set-top box analytics. Despite the shift in measurement, the ratings underscored the series’ massive appeal. Through three games, the Finals averaged 19.1 million viewers, surpassing the previous record for the second-highest viewership in NBA Finals history. The first two games had already set a high bar, with an average of 16.68 million viewers tuning in, as reported by Front Office Sports. The Spurs’ ability to attract a large audience was partly attributed to their star player, Victor Wembanyama, whose presence has expanded the team’s fan base. Wembanyama’s star power likely drew in casual NBA fans who rarely see him in action, adding to the series’ popularity.#donald_trump #madison_square_garden #new_york_knicks #san_antonio_spurs #nba_finals_game_3
San Antonio Spurs Edge New York Knicks in NBA Finals Game 3, Narrowing Series Gap NEW YORK -- — The San Antonio Spurs delivered a decisive blow to the New York Knicks’ historic championship aspirations with a 115-111 victory in Game 3 of the NBA Finals on Monday, cutting the Knicks’ series lead to 2-1. The win marked a pivotal moment in the best-of-seven series, as the Spurs, trailing 2-0 in the series, now hold the advantage heading into Game 4. Victor Wembanyama, the 7-foot-4 French phenom, led the charge with 32 points, eight rebounds, and six assists, cementing his status as a Finals hero and propelling his team toward an improbable comeback. The Spurs’ triumph ended the Knicks’ 13-game postseason winning streak, a feat that had positioned them as the favorites to end their 53-year championship drought. The Knicks, who had dominated the Eastern Conference playoffs with a relentless offensive attack, faced their first setback in 46 days. Their previous loss had come on April 23 in a one-point defeat to the Atlanta Hawks, but they had since rattled off three consecutive wins against Atlanta, swept Philadelphia and Cleveland, and taken the first two games of this series against the Spurs. Wembanyama’s performance was instrumental in shifting the momentum. After a costly turnover in Game 2 that nearly cost the Spurs the series, the French forward showcased his poise and versatility, contributing to a balanced attack that kept the Knicks’ star-studded roster in check. His 10 points in the final quarter proved crucial as the Spurs built a cushion that the Knicks could not overcome. “I’m sure Victor has numerous sources of motivation,” Spurs coach Mitch Johnson said, emphasizing the team’s confidence in Wembanyama’s ability to deliver under pressure.#new_york_knicks #san_antonio_spurs #victor_wembanyama #jalen_brunson #og_anunoby
NBA Finals Game 4 Preview: Wembanyama and Brunson Lead Key Matchups The NBA Finals entered a pivotal moment as the San Antonio Spurs and New York Knicks prepared for Game 4, with the series tied at 2-1. The Spurs, having erased a halftime deficit in Game 3 to secure an 115-111 victory, now face the challenge of evening the series before returning home for Game 5. The Knicks, who had dominated the first three games with a 13-game playoff winning streak, will look to reclaim momentum, while the Spurs aim to shift the narrative. The game, set for 8:30 p.m. ET on ABC, carries significant implications for both teams, with the outcome potentially determining the series’ direction. The Spurs’ Victor Wembanyama emerged as a central figure in the series, delivering a 32-point performance in Game 3 and averaging 10.5 more points in Spurs wins than losses this postseason. His dominance has been critical for San Antonio, which has relied heavily on his scoring and playmaking. Conversely, the Knicks’ Jalen Brunson, who scored 32 points in Game 3, continues to struggle with efficiency against the Spurs’ aggressive defense. Brunson’s 36.7% shooting from the field and 38.0% usage rate in the series highlight his challenges, though he remains the Knicks’ primary offensive threat. The Spurs’ Game 3 victory marked a turning point, ending the Knicks’ 13-game playoff winning streak and shifting the series’ momentum. San Antonio’s ability to adapt to the Knicks’ defensive schemes, particularly in the second half, proved decisive. The Spurs’ depth also played a role, with Stephon Castle stepping up to provide poise on the road. Castle’s 40.8 fantasy points in Game 3, including a series-high six free throw attempts, underscored his importance as a complementary scorer.#new_york_knicks #san_antonio_spurs #victor_wembanyama #jalen_brunson #nba_finals
Trump torches Stephen A Smith's presidential hopes after Knicks lose Game 3 with Trump at MSG The New York Knicks’ loss in Game 3 of the 2026 NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden sparked a sharp exchange between President Donald Trump and ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith, who had previously criticized Trump’s attendance at the event. Smith, a vocal Knicks fan, had argued that Trump’s presence at the game would create unnecessary chaos and suggested the president would be responsible for the team’s defeat. The Spurs’ 115-111 victory over the Knicks cut New York’s series lead to 2-1, reigniting debates about the impact of Trump’s appearance. Trump, who attended the game as the first sitting U.S. president to do so, addressed Smith’s remarks during a post-game press conference before boarding Air Force One. “I think he’s a nice guy, but you need a certain aptitude to run for president,” Trump said, dismissing Smith’s presidential ambitions. “You need a high IQ. I’m not sure that Stephen has that. I don’t think he does, actually.” The comment was a pointed jab at Smith’s repeated hints about running for president in 2028, which he has framed as an inevitability due to pressure from political allies. Smith had previously claimed that Trump’s presence at the game would “create unnecessary chaos” and that he would blame the president if the Knicks lost. However, he stopped short of acknowledging Trump’s potential role in a Knicks victory, a contrast that Trump highlighted. The commentator, known for his provocative style, had also argued that his criticism of Trump was not political, insisting he would feel the same way if former presidents like Barack Obama or George W. Bush attended the game.#donald_trump #madison_square_garden #new_york_knicks #san_antonio_spurs #stephen_a_smith
NBA Decides Not to Upgrade Wemby's Shove to Flagrant Foul Victor Wembanyama, the San Antonio Spurs star, avoided a potential flagrant foul upgrade after shoving New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson during Game 3 of the 2026 NBA Finals. The incident, which occurred in the first quarter, was reviewed by the NBA, but officials determined it did not meet the criteria for a flagrant foul. As a result, Wembanyama remains at two flagrant foul points for the postseason, avoiding a suspension that would have followed a fourth flagrant foul. The shove was part of a physically charged first quarter, with Knicks guard Josh Hart also picking up a technical foul after an exchange with Spurs forward Luke Kornet. However, the Wembanyama-Brunson incident drew the most attention due to the star power of both players. Brunson, who led the Knicks in scoring during the series, addressed the play after the game, stating, "Whatever you saw is what you saw," without elaborating on the specifics. NBA senior vice president Monty McCutchen acknowledged during a Tuesday appearance on ESPN’s NBA Today that a foul was missed on the play. He admitted the league’s referees failed to properly monitor on-ball and off-ball exchanges, which led to the oversight. "A big part of our job is on-ball, off-ball exchanges between referees," McCutchen said. "We did a poor job of that here... If we break down in our fundamentals, we have the opportunity to miss a clear foul as we missed here." The decision not to upgrade the incident to a flagrant foul was a critical break for the Spurs. Wembanyama already carried two flagrant foul points into the Finals after a flagrant-2 foul and ejection for elbowing Minnesota Timberwolves center Naz Reid during the second-round playoffs.#new_york_knicks #san_antonio_spurs #victor_wembanyama #jalen_brunson #monty_mccutchen
Victor Wembanyama Avoids Flagrant Foul in NBA Finals Game 3 San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama will not receive a flagrant foul for his shove to the upper body of New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson during Game 3 of the NBA Finals, according to a league spokesperson who shared the decision with ESPN’s Shams Charania on Tuesday. The incident occurred with 4:44 remaining in the first quarter of Monday’s game. Brunson attempted to set a screen on Wembanyama around the free throw line, and when the 7-foot-4 center turned to face the play, he shoved Brunson to the ground. Referees did not call a foul on the play, despite immediate protests from the Knicks. The NBA’s senior vice president of referee development and training, Monty McCutchen, told ESPN’s “NBA Today” that a foul should have been called on the play. However, the league decided not to elevate the no-call to a flagrant foul. Wembanyama, who already had two flagrant points in the postseason, will remain at two points. Players who accumulate four flagrant points face an automatic suspension. Wembanyama’s two flagrant points stem from an earlier incident in the playoffs. During Game 4 of the Spurs’ second-round series against the Minnesota Timberwolves, he was assessed two flagrant fouls for elbowing forward Naz Reid in the jaw. The contact, which occurred above the neck, led to Wembanyama’s ejection from the game. The NBA did not impose further disciplinary action, such as a fine, for that incident. The league’s decision not to classify Wembanyama’s shove as a flagrant foul has drawn attention to the criteria used to evaluate such plays. While McCutchen acknowledged the contact was excessive and warranted a foul call, the final determination by the league did not escalate the no-call to a flagrant.#new_york_knicks #san_antonio_spurs #victor_wembanyama #jalen_brunson #nba_finals
Landry Shamet an Unsung Hero Who Can't Be Ignored in Knicks' Incredible Playoff Run The New York Knicks’ historic playoff run, now two wins away from their first championship in over half a century, has been fueled by a mix of star power and under-the-radar contributions. While Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns dominate headlines, the team’s success hinges on a roster of unsung heroes, with Landry Shamet emerging as a critical, yet often overlooked, figure in their journey. Despite his second consecutive veteran’s minimum contract, Shamet’s impact has been undeniable, particularly in pivotal moments that defined the Knicks’ path to the NBA Finals. Shamet’s journey this season has been marked by resilience and determination. After suffering a shoulder injury in the 2025 preseason, he spent time rehabilitating in the G-League before rejoining the Knicks midseason. While he returned to the roster, his role in the regular season was limited, falling out of the rotation as the playoffs approached. However, the Knicks turned to him in the Conference Finals, where his late-game heroics became a turning point. Facing elimination against the Philadelphia 76ers, Shamet’s ability to step up under pressure helped New York secure a dramatic comeback. The Knicks’ playoff run took a dramatic turn in the second round when Shamet’s performance against the 76ers showcased his value. In Games 3 and 4 of that series, he scored 15 and 12 points respectively, hitting crucial three-pointers that sealed the series. His efficiency from beyond the arc—shooting 6-of-9 in those two games—highlighted his role as a reliable shooter in high-stakes situations. This performance earned him a place in the Conference Finals, where his contributions became even more vital.#new_york_knicks #jalen_brunson #philadelphia_76ers #karl_anthony_towns #landry_shamet
2026 NBA Finals: Knicks Edge Spurs in Game 2, Extend Winning Streak The New York Knicks defied historical trends and statistical odds to secure a hard-fought 105-104 victory over the San Antonio Spurs in Game 2 of the 2026 NBA Finals. Despite the Spurs’ strong historical performance in road Game 2s—where road teams that won Game 1 were 2-16 in the following game, with an average deficit of 11.3 points—the Knicks’ resilience and clutch play kept them ahead in the series. The win extended their winning streak to 13 games and brought them within two victories of their first championship in decades. The game’s defining moments began in the fourth quarter, where the Knicks built a 14-point lead after a dunk by OG Anunoby and a 2-0 series advantage. ESPN Analytics gave New York a 98.2% chance to win at that point. However, the Spurs mounted a dramatic comeback, fueled by their left-handed backcourt duo of Dylan Harper and De'Aaron Fox, who scored 14 consecutive points to tie the game. The Spurs’ resurgence culminated in a tense final minute, during which San Antonio’s star center, Victor Wembanyama, became the focal point. Wembanyama’s performance was a mix of brilliance and frustration. He scored 29 points, grabbed nine rebounds, and added four blocks and two steals, leading the Spurs to a +6 net rating in his 40 minutes. His post moves and transition dunks, including a highlight-reel alley-oop dunk and an and-1 layup, showcased his potential as a generational talent. However, his struggles from beyond the arc highlighted the pressure of the moment. Wembanyama missed two critical midrange jumpers in the final minutes, both within 20-21 feet of the basket and against close defenders. His career shooting percentage on similar shots was 34%, yet he failed to convert either attempt.#new_york_knicks #de_aaron_fox #san_antonio_spurs #dylan_harper #og_anunoby
