Knicks Snap Spurs' 11-Game Streak
The New York Knicks demolished the San Antonio Spurs 114-89, ending their 11-game winning streak with stifling defense. Mikal Bridges led with 25 points and 5 steals while all five starters scored in double figures at Madison Square Garden.
The Spurs' dominant stretch was their longest since a 13-game run in the 2015-16 season. Before the loss to the Knicks, San Antonio had not been defeated since a 111-106 decision to the Charlotte Hornets on January 31. Their unbeaten February made them the first team in NBA history to win every game in a month (minimum 10 games) while scoring at least 110 points in each contest. Despite a hot start that saw the Spurs jump out to a 19-7 lead, the game's momentum shifted dramatically. The Knicks orchestrated a massive 26-2 run that bridged the first and second quarters, turning a 12-point deficit into a commanding lead. Jalen Brunson was the catalyst, scoring 11 of his 24 points in the final 1:52 of the first quarter to erase the early Spurs advantage. New York's defense was the story of the night, holding the high-powered Spurs to a season-low point total. The Knicks forced a season-high 22 turnovers from the Spurs, leading to 24 points. San Antonio's star rookie, Victor Wembanyama, accounted for seven of those turnovers himself. The victory was a measure of revenge for the Knicks, who had lost a close 134-132 matchup to the Spurs on New Year's Eve. This win marked New York's 14th victory in their last 18 games. Beyond Mikal Bridges, Jalen Brunson contributed 24 points and seven assists, while Mohamed Diawara added 14 points off the bench.
