The New York Knicks are now just one win away from reaching the NBA Finals for the first time since 1999 after defeating the Cleveland Cavaliers 121-108 in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Finals on Sunday, May 24, 2026 (Philippine time). The victory gives the Knicks a dominant 3-0 series lead.
Key Performances
Knicks star Jalen Brunson led all scorers with a game-high 30 points. Mikal Bridges added 22 points on 11-of-15 shooting, while O.G. Anunoby contributed 21 points. Bigman Karl-Anthony Towns posted a near triple-double with 13 points, eight rebounds, eight assists, and three steals. Josh Hart chipped in with 12 points, nine rebounds, five assists, and four steals.
Historical Context
According to league statistics, no team in NBA history has ever come back from a 3-0 deficit to win a playoff series. However, the Knicks remain cautious and focused on closing out the series.
Player Comments
"The series isn't over," said Anunoby. "Just keep our foot on their necks and just try to win the game." Brunson echoed the sentiment: "Just focus on one possession at a time. The way we've been having that mindset these past couple weeks, we have to continue it, if not actually better."
The last time the Knicks reached the NBA Finals was 27 years ago, when they lost to the San Antonio Spurs. The franchise has not won an NBA championship since 1973.
