Earlier this summer, one of the most memorable moments in NBA Finals history took place when the Knicks, leading the series 2-0 against the Spurs, returned to Madison Square Garden for Game 3. Despite having the home-court advantage, the Knicks lost that game, which was their sole defeat in the series before ultimately winning the championship that ended their long drought. In an interview with GQ Sports, Spurs guard Stephon Castle reflected on that Game 3—the first NBA Finals game held at MSG in 27 years—describing the crowd as “underwhelming.” Castle even remarked that Oklahoma City’s atmosphere, where the Spurs defeated the Thunder in the Western Conference Finals, was much louder and more intense than MSG. The Spurs secured their Finals spot for the first time since 2014 after winning a Game 7 in Oklahoma City.
Castle commented, “It was underwhelming in that first game. They made it seem like it was going to be way crazier in there.” After losing Game 3, the Knicks bounced back by winning Game 4, thanks to OG Anunoby’s last-second tip-in following a missed three-pointer from Jalen Brunson, completing an unlikely comeback. The Knicks then clinched the title in Game 5 on the road in San Antonio, capturing their first NBA championship since 1973.
Looking ahead to the 2026-27 regular season, the Knicks and Spurs—who recently faced off in the NBA Cup final and the NBA Finals—are scheduled to meet twice. The Spurs will visit MSG on Christmas Day for a rematch of the NBA Finals, and the Knicks will travel to San Antonio on March 7.
Fan Take: This insight from Stephon Castle shines a light on how different arenas and fan energy can impact players’ experiences and performances during high-stakes games. For basketball fans, understanding the nuances of home-court advantage adds depth to how we appreciate the drama and intensity of playoff basketball, potentially influencing how franchises strategize for future championships.
Source: www.cbssports.com
