Anunoby’s Tip-In Etches His Name in History

Anunoby’s clutch performance — including a game-winning tip-in off a Jalen Brunson three-point attempt with 0.1 seconds left, was the highlight of the Knicks’ dramatic 107-106 win over the Spurs, per ESPN. The shot was described by Knicks coach Mike Brown as “the most iconic shot in the history of New York basketball.”

Brunson, who scored 36 points, hit a go-ahead free throw with 9.5 seconds left after a turnover by Victor Wembanyama, according to USA Today. Wembanyama then missed a buzzer-beating jumper, allowing the Knicks to pull off the improbable win.

Knicks Extend Win Streak to 13, Now Two Wins From Title

The Knicks have now won 13 straight games, the second-longest playoff streak in NBA history, as reported by ABC7. They are just the third team to win the first two games of an NBA Finals on the road, joining the 1993 Chicago Bulls and the 1995 Houston Rockets, both of whom went on to win the title.

Karl-Anthony Towns, who had 21 points and 13 rebounds, praised the energy from New York fans: “New York City showed up. The fans showed up. The energy showed up. And we found a way to get it done,” he said.

The Spurs had built an 81-59 third-quarter lead but were outscored 32-16 in the fourth quarter, according to USA Today. Dylan Harper added 21 points off the bench, while Wembanyama scored 24 points and grabbed 13 rebounds.

The Historic Game-Winner Gets a New Nickname

Following the game, the winning tip-in has already been dubbed the “Right Hand of God,” a nickname coined by Towns, as reported by AOL. Knicks coach Mike Brown echoed the sentiment, calling the shot “unbelievable.”

“It feels cool,” Anunoby said when asked about the shot at a post-game press conference, per AOL. His comment drew laughter from reporters, who recognized the underplaying of a historic moment.

Ben Stiller, a celebrity Knicks fan, posted footage of the winning play from courtside and praised the “insane level of timing and athleticism and touch,” according to AOL. The moment has already entered Knicks lore.

With the 105-104 win, the Knicks now have three chances to close out the series and end their 50-year championship drought. The next game is set for Saturday in San Antonio.