New York Knicks forward OG Anunoby secured a comeback victory in Game 4 of the 2026 NBA Finals with a game-winning tip-in [1].
The play remains a pivotal moment in franchise history because it clinched a decisive lead against the San Antonio Spurs. The victory served as a catalyst in a series that ended in a five-game loss for the Spurs [1].
The play has sparked significant discussion among players and collectors. Karl-Anthony Towns said, "I was going to dunk it" [3]. Anunoby said, "I'm over it now" [1].
The cultural impact of the play extended to the memorabilia market. Reports indicated that the game-used ball was expected to fetch $3,000,000 [4] at an auction scheduled to begin June 30, 2026 [4]. However, conflicting reports have emerged regarding the sale, with some sources stating the auction was cancelled [5].
Confusion also exists regarding the specific nature of the play. While primary reports highlight the tip-in that completed the comeback [1], other NBA confirmations have referenced a clean, game-saving block by Anunoby [2]. Despite these contradictions, the moment is widely regarded as the defining sequence of the game.
The New York Knicks utilized the momentum from Game 4 to maintain their trajectory in the finals. The victory solidified Anunoby's role as a clutch performer for the organization during the 2026 postseason.
“"I was going to dunk it"”
The 2026 NBA Finals victory for the New York Knicks represents a shift in power within the league, ending a period of dominance for the San Antonio Spurs. The high valuation of the game-used ball—even amid reports of a cancelled auction—underscores the commercialization of 'clutch' moments in modern professional sports and the enduring legacy of the Knicks' brand in New York.
