The New York Knicks fell just short of matching one of the NBA’s toughest playoff records, with a costly Game 3 defeat at Madison Square Garden bringing their run to an end.
New York entered Monday night with 13 straight postseason wins and a chance to move within one of the Golden State Warriors’ all-time mark.
Instead, the San Antonio Spurs handed the Knicks a 115-111 loss, cutting the NBA Finals series to 2-1 and keeping the Warriors’ record safe.
Knicks playoff winning streak ends before matching Warriors record
Golden State took notice after their record stayed intact. The 2017 Warriors set the mark by opening that postseason 15-0 before losing Game 4 of the NBA Finals to the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Golden State swept through Portland, Utah and San Antonio, then took the first three games against Cleveland before the Cavs finally snapped the streak.
That Warriors team finished the playoffs 16-1, one of the most dominant runs in league history.
The Knicks came close, reaching 13 consecutive wins, one of the longest playoff streaks ever, but fell two short of matching Golden State’s record.
Spurs spoil Knicks record chase in NBA Finals Game 3
San Antonio’s 115-111 win changed the tone of the series after New York had taken the first two games on the road.
Victor Wembanyama led the Spurs with 32 points, eight rebounds, six assists and three blocks, giving San Antonio the star performance it needed in a hostile MSG atmosphere.
Stephon Castle added 23 points, while Jalen Brunson scored 32 and OG Anunoby had 28 for the Knicks.
Knicks vs Spurs Game 4 now carries more pressure
The Knicks still lead the Finals 2-1, but the loss ended their winning streak and gave San Antonio life.
Game 4 is scheduled for Wednesday, June 10, at 8:30 p.m. ET at Madison Square Garden.
New York can still move within one win of the championship, but the Warriors’ 15-game playoff streak will remain alone for at least another year.
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