The New York Knicks are getting closer and closer to ending a streak of more than five decades. On Friday night (5), the team beat the San Antonio Spurs 105-104 and took a 2-0 lead in the NBA Finals.
After leading the victory in Game 1 with his offensive production in the last quarter, Jalen Brunson was decisive again in the second match. The point guard stole a ball in the final seconds after Wembanyama’s missed pass and converted a free throw that put the Knicks ahead for good with 9.5 seconds left.
With the result, , surpassing the streak of the 1999 San Antonio Spurs and achieving the second longest series of victories in the history of the NBA postseason.
“It was a collective effort. We found a way to win these two games,” said Karl-Anthony Towns, who recorded 21 points and 13 rebounds. “It’s everyone’s credit for coming together around a greater goal.”
The decisive play started after a mistake by Victor Wembanyama. The Frenchman attempted a pass that ended up hitting teammate Stephon Castle in the back. Brunson regained possession, was fouled and converted one of two free throws, ensuring the Knicks’ lead.
“I saw he wasn’t looking and tried to get the ball. I just didn’t want Wemby to come back and get it back,” Brunson explained.
Spurs still had the last possession to try to win, but Wembanyama wasted a mid-range shot before the clock ran out.
The victory also represented the Knicks’ eighth consecutive playoff win in a row. Now, the New York team is just two wins away from winning its first NBA title since 1973.
