OG Anunoby hit a game-winning tip-in on Wednesday to give the New York Knicks a 107-106 victory over the San Antonio Spurs [1].
The win marks the greatest comeback in NBA Finals history and places the Knicks ahead 3-1 in the series [1], [3].
The victory occurred at Madison Square Garden during Game 4 of the NBA Finals [2], [3]. The Knicks faced a steep climb throughout the contest, trailing by as many as 29 points [4]. The team also held a 27-point deficit at halftime [4]. Even with roughly seven minutes remaining in the fourth quarter, New York still trailed by 20 points [4].
Anunoby secured the win with a putback that gave the Knicks the lead with 5.7 seconds remaining on the clock [1]. The play brought the home crowd to a frenzy, and reporters said the Knicks brought the arena down with the play [2].
Head coach Mike Brown said the play was the "most iconic shot ever" [1]. Teammate Josh Hart was also mentioned in the context of the victory, and reporting suggested Anunoby's effort saved Hart from a lifetime of regret [2].
The Knicks now lead the series 3-1 as they look to close out the championship against the Spurs [1].
“"Most iconic shot ever."”
This victory represents a historic shift in the NBA Finals, as the Knicks overcame a deficit larger than any previously recorded in the championship round. By securing a 3-1 series lead, New York has placed the San Antonio Spurs in a position where they must win three consecutive games to claim the title, significantly increasing the statistical probability of a Knicks championship.
