The dream season for the New York Knicks continues. Not even a double-digit deficit or an early injury scare involving Jalen Brunson could slow down Mike Brown’s team, which went into San Antonio and claimed Game 1 of the NBA Finals with a 105-95 victory.

The Spurs looked like the more energetic and athletic team for much of the night, building a lead that reached 14 points in the third quarter. But even then, New York never lost its composure.

Brunson takes over the fourth quarter

After struggling offensively for most of the game, Brunson came alive when it mattered most. Thirteen of his 30 points came in the final period, the stretch that ultimately swung the game in favor of the Knicks.

Jalen was our MVP in the second half. He did what MVP candidates do: he carried us to a win. We put the ball in his hands and he delivered when the game was on the line

Mike Brown

Karl-Anthony Towns’ impact

Before Brunson took control of the closing minutes, it was Karl-Anthony Towns who kept New York within striking distance. The Knicks big man ramped up his offensive aggression while his teammate searched for rhythm, scoring 10 of his 18 points in the third quarter alone.

New York’s game plan was clear: force Victor Wembanyama to work constantly on defense and pull him away from the rim as much as possible. Thanks to his versatile offensive skill set, Towns repeatedly created uncomfortable situations for the reigning Defensive Player of the Year.

I always try to be aggressive and create offense. At the start of a game, you never know what the defense is going to give you, so I wanted to attack right away

Karl-Anthony Towns

If there is one characteristic that has defined the Knicks’ postseason run, it is their ability to respond to adversity. New York had already erased a 22-point deficit against Cleveland in the Eastern Conference Finals and mounted several major comebacks against Boston during last year’s playoff series.

Brunson explained the foundation of that mentality:

We’re a very close group. We trust each other and continue to support one another through difficult moments. We never think a single play is going to change everything – we just keep working possession by possession

Jalen Brunson

Game 1 followed the same script: gradually chip away at the deficit, get within striking distance, and then trust their leader to finish the job.