Ranking Greatest NBA Finals comebacks amid Knicks thriller over Spurs

Published: Thursday, June 11, 2026 at 5:18 am

Knicks Stage Historic NBA Finals Comeback, Rewriting Record Books

In a stunning display of resilience and determination, the New York Knicks have achieved the largest comeback in NBA Finals history, erasing a 29-point deficit to defeat the San Antonio Spurs 107-106. The electrifying Game 4 victory at Madison Square Garden has sent shockwaves through the league and ignited the city's passionate basketball fanbase.

The Knicks, trailing significantly in the third quarter, mounted an improbable rally that culminated in a dramatic game-winning putback with just one second remaining. This monumental win propels the Knicks to a commanding 3-1 series lead, leaving the Spurs facing an uphill battle to force a return trip to New York.

This historic comeback naturally prompts a look back at other legendary NBA Finals turnarounds. The 1995 Finals saw the Houston Rockets overcome a 20-point deficit against the Orlando Magic in Game 1, ultimately winning in overtime thanks to a clutch three-pointer and a game-winning tip-in. The 2008 Boston Celtics also orchestrated a remarkable comeback, erasing a 24-point deficit against the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 4 of their championship series, showcasing a dominant defensive effort.

Perhaps the most discussed comeback, though not a single-game feat, is the 2016 Cleveland Cavaliers' triumph over the record-breaking Golden State Warriors. Facing a seemingly insurmountable 3-1 series deficit against a 73-9 Warriors team, LeBron James and the Cavaliers achieved what no team had before in the Finals, winning three consecutive games, including a decisive Game 7 on the road.

However, Wednesday night's Knicks performance has etched its name in the annals of NBA lore. The comeback was not only statistically unprecedented but also imbued with narrative significance. For a city with a rich basketball heritage that has endured prolonged periods without championship success from its major sports franchises, this resurgence at the iconic Madison Square Garden holds particular resonance. The heroics of players like Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby, coupled with the Spurs' late-game struggles, have created a moment that New York basketball fans will long remember.

BNN's Perspective: The Knicks' record-breaking comeback is a testament to the unpredictable and exhilarating nature of playoff basketball. While the magnitude of the deficit overcome is remarkable, it also serves as a reminder of the fine margins that can decide championship series. The Spurs will undoubtedly be looking to regroup and avoid a similar collapse, while the Knicks will aim to maintain their momentum. The series is far from over, and the psychological impact of this game will be a significant factor moving forward.

Tags: NBA Finals, comeback, New York Knicks, San Antonio Spurs, Madison Square Garden, historic comeback, largest comeback, 1995 Houston Rockets, Orlando Magic, 2008 Boston Celtics, Los Angeles Lakers, 2016 Cleveland Cavaliers, Golden State Warriors, LeBron James, Jalen Brunson, OG Anunoby, Victor Wembanyama

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