Knicks Edge Spurs in Dramatic Finish, Take 2-0 NBA Finals Lead as Wembanyama Misses Buzzer Beater

The New York Knicks seized a commanding 2-0 lead in the 2026 NBA Finals after a dramatic 105-104 victory over the San Antonio Spurs Friday night at Madison Square Garden. The tension-filled finish saw Knicks star Jalen Brunson deliver the decisive free throw with just 9.5 seconds remaining, moments after Spurs rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama committed a costly turnover.

• Jalen Brunson hit a go-ahead free throw with 9.5 seconds left
• Victor Wembanyama turned the ball over just before the final play
• Wembanyama missed a potential game-winning shot at the buzzer
• Knicks lead the series 2-0

The game’s closing moments provided a playoff classic for an electric Madison Square Garden crowd. After a back-and-forth fourth quarter, the Spurs had the ball in the final seconds but saw their hopes unravel with Wembanyama's turnover under pressure. On the ensuing possession, Brunson drew a foul and sank the go-ahead free throw, giving New York a one-point advantage.

With less than 10 seconds left, San Antonio turned to their rookie phenom for a final chance. Wembanyama, who has been a focal point for the Spurs throughout their playoff run, found space for a jumper as time expired but could not connect—sending Knicks fans into jubilation as the buzzer sounded and New York secured the win.

Statistically, the game was defined by its razor-thin margin and late-game execution. Both teams exchanged leads throughout, and the Knicks’ ability to capitalize on San Antonio’s late mistake proved crucial. The Spurs, meanwhile, will rue the missed opportunity to even the series on the road but can take encouragement from their resilience and the promising play of Wembanyama despite the final miss.

New York now heads to San Antonio with a 2-0 series advantage, a cushion that has historically been difficult for Finals opponents to overcome. For the Spurs, the challenge is clear: regroup and protect home court to keep their championship aspirations alive. The Knicks, riding the momentum of two nail-biting wins, are just two victories away from their first NBA title in over 50 years.