The New York Knicks nearly misplaced to the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 1 of their Eastern Conference finals however stole the win by staging some of the epic comebacks in NBA historical past. They battled again from a 22-point deficit with eight minutes remaining and accomplished the comeback in additional time.
Jalen Brunson led the best way with a game-high 38 factors. He additionally hit the clutch two-pointer that pressured additional time. ESPN mentioned it was the second biggest fourth-quarter comeback in playoff historical past since a 2012 playoff recreation during which the Los Angeles Clippers overcame a 24-point deficit towards the Memphis Grizzlies.
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Karl-Anthony Towns credited the crowd at MSG for giving the staff power and serving to them keep away from dropping hope.
“It had been a tough go-around for them for the first three quarters of the game,” he mentioned after the sport.
“For us to come into that huddle with the energy from the fans and for them to show us so much love and support, then to give them something to cheer for in the fourth quarter, it’s always an honor. It’s a privilege to be able to do that.”
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The comeback had MSG rocking, and the group was on its ft all through the rally. Even staff legends turned so excited that certainly one of them almost bought injured — or was near incomes a technical foul.
New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson hits a clutch shot throughout playoff recreation versus Cleveland CavaliersVincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Stephon Marbury was among the many outstanding names in attendance. He cheered like a die-hard fan and nearly stole the highlight himself. For that, he’s apologizing.
He turned to his official X account to deal with his actions beneath the basket when Brunson made the game-tying two-pointer that pressured additional time.
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Fans are understanding concerning the actions of Marbuy who performed for the Knicks from 2004 to 2009.
“Starbury you good bro, Brunson had everyone in that building possessed and energetic with his play and that comeback lol,” NFL analyst Ian Williams wrote.
“No apologies needed @StarburyMarbury the energy you and @StarksTheDunk had on the sideline had me even more on 🔥 than I already was,” Knicks fan account NYKMentality replied.
“We all were you last night you earned that privilege,” mentioned one other in a quote put up.
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Brunson, Towns and the remainder of the Knicks will want extra of Marbury and the group’s power come Game 2 on Thursday.
Related: Mike Brown Reveals James Harden Game Plan After Knicks’ Game 1 Win
This story was initially revealed by Athlon Sports on May 21, 2026, the place it first appeared within the NBA part. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.