Spurs Still Upbeat After Game 1 Defeat; League Reviews Brunson Fan Incident
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San Antonio dropped the opener of the NBA Finals to New York, 105-99, yet players insist the series remains firmly within their grasp.
Locker-room confidence remains high
“We feel like we’re the better team,” guard Stephon Castle said after Thursday’s loss at Madison Square Garden. “We didn’t play well and still had a chance to win.”
The Spurs entered the Finals as favorites and have already overcome several playoff hurdles. They dropped Game 1 of the Western Conference semifinals to Minnesota and later trailed Oklahoma City 2-1 and 3-2 before advancing.
Rookie standout Victor Wembanyama, who finished with 26 points and 12 rebounds, echoed the belief inside the locker room. “I was bad tonight,” he admitted. “We’re going to be so much better. I’m going to be so much better.”
The Athletic’s Jared Weiss observed that Knicks guard Jalen Brunson controlled the closing minutes, while Wembanyama appeared to search for answers. Teammate Dylan Harper expressed no concern: “He never backs down from the moment.”
NBA looks into courtside exchange
The league is reviewing an incident involving Brunson in the final moments of Game 1, according to TNT’s Chris Haynes. Two courtside spectators allegedly directed profane, derogatory remarks at the Knicks guard. Brunson later discussed the matter with crew chief Scott Foster. Possible disciplinary measures have not been disclosed.
Rotations tighten as stakes rise
Both coaches shortened their benches after halftime. New York reduced its group from 10 players to nine, with veteran guard Jordan Clarkson sitting the entire second half. San Antonio removed rookie forward Carter Bryant from the rotation after intermission.
Slimmer lineups are common in June, as every possession gains added weight in the Finals.
Source: Hoops Wire
