In a dramatic turn of events on June 10, 2026, the San Antonio Spurs lost to the New York Knicks 107-106 in Game 4 of the NBA Finals after leading by 29 points. This marks the largest comeback in NBA Finals history, putting the Spurs in a precarious 3-1 series deficit.
Why it matters: The Spurs' loss highlights a major turning point in the NBA Finals, as they now face elimination. Their inability to maintain a substantial lead raises questions about their resilience in high-stakes situations.
- The Spurs had a commanding 37-20 lead with 41.7 seconds left in the first quarter.
- OG Anunoby's tip-in of a Jalen Brunson miss secured the Knicks' historic comeback.
- San Antonio's defeat puts them one game away from elimination as they head into Game 5.
Driving the news: The game took place at Madison Square Garden, where the Spurs initially dominated. Led by Victor Wembanyama, who scored 41 points, the Spurs seemed on track for victory until their second half faltered dramatically.
- Wembanyama missed two free throws with 1:47 left, trailing 104-103, which could have changed the game's outcome.
- De'Aaron Fox's layup attempt with 13.1 seconds left was blocked by Anunoby, leading to the Knicks' game-winning play.
- The Spurs scored only 30 points in the second half, shooting 8-of-39 with 10 turnovers.
State of play: The Spurs had previously established a strong offensive rhythm, scoring 76 points in the first half, but they failed to carry that momentum into the second half.
- San Antonio set a record for the most 3-pointers (14) made in a half of an NBA Finals matchup.
- Rookie guard Dylan Harper noted, "We just can't take our foot off the gas," emphasizing the need to maintain intensity.
- Coach Mitch Johnson expressed disappointment, stating, "To put as much good work into that first half... and not finish the job is disappointing to say the least."
The big picture: The Spurs have struggled to maintain leads throughout the series, having owned double-digit advantages in every game but managing to secure only one win.
- They have a point differential of +47 in the first quarter across the series, indicating strong starts.
- Wembanyama's performance has been a bright spot, but his fatigue late in games has raised concerns.
- "It just feels like we worked too hard and gave up our leads. It just hurts," Wembanyama said postgame.
What they're saying: Reactions from the Spurs locker room were somber following the loss, with players visibly affected by the defeat.
- Many players were seen with heads down, glued to their phones, processing the loss.
- Keldon Johnson, the NBA Sixth Man of the Year, stated, "We're so close, but so far. We're going to continue what we do, bring our brand of basketball and correct the things we can correct going forward."
- Wembanyama expressed optimism, saying, "We've proven we can surpass these difficulties. I'm convinced we're built that way and we're going to use the best of this."
By the numbers: Key statistics from the game highlight the Spurs' initial success contrasted with their second-half collapse.
- The Spurs shot 9-of-11 in the first quarter, compared to 8-of-39 in the second half.
- They had a +29 lead at one point, the largest in NBA Finals history before losing.
- Four Spurs players scored in double figures by halftime, contributing to their 76-point total.
What's next: The Spurs must regroup quickly as they prepare for Game 5 on Saturday at Frost Bank Center, where they will look to stave off elimination.
- Johnson emphasized the importance of correcting mistakes, stating, "We want to win. We're going to continue what we do."
- The team’s previous experience overcoming elimination in the playoffs could play a role in their approach.
- With the pressure mounting, the Spurs will need to draw on their resilience and experience to avoid another collapse.