NBA Finals 2026: Knicks vs Spurs Game 3 preview, time & how to watch
The 2026 NBA Finals head to New York on Monday night with the New York Knicks holding a commanding 2-0 advantage over the San Antonio Spurs.
After winning both opening games in San Antonio, the Knicks now have an opportunity to move within a single victory of capturing their first NBA championship since 1973. Standing in their way is a Spurs team desperate to avoid falling into a virtually insurmountable 3-0 deficit.
Game 3 will mark the first NBA Finals contest at Madison Square Garden since 1999, when these same two franchises last met on basketball's biggest stage.
Knicks chasing historic championship
The Knicks have been one of the NBA's most consistent teams throughout the playoffs and have carried that form into the Finals.
Victories in Games 1 and 2 have put New York firmly in control of the series, with momentum now shifting to one of the most iconic venues in sports.
No team in NBA history has ever recovered from a 3-0 deficit in a playoff series, making Game 3 a pivotal moment for both franchises. A victory would put the Knicks on the verge of ending a championship drought that has lasted more than five decades.
Spurs face a must-win situation
San Antonio enters Game 3 knowing the importance of the occasion. The Spurs have struggled to contain New York's offensive rhythm through the first two games and now face the challenge of responding in a hostile road environment.
While the franchise boasts a proud history that includes multiple NBA championships, falling behind 3-0 would leave them facing nearly impossible odds.
The Spurs will be looking to their veteran leaders and young stars to spark a turnaround and bring the series back to life.
Madison Square Garden set for electric atmosphere
The return of the NBA Finals to Madison Square Garden is one of the biggest storylines of the series. The famous arena has not hosted an NBA Finals game since New York's previous championship showdown with San Antonio in 1999.
Fans are expected to create a playoff atmosphere unlike any seen this season as the city dreams of witnessing a championship run on home court.
Enhanced security ahead of Game 3
Security around Madison Square Garden has been significantly increased ahead of the game due to the expected attendance of U.S. President Donald Trump.
Reports indicate that a heavily secured perimeter has been established around the arena, with vehicle restrictions and increased law enforcement presence in the surrounding area.
The heightened security comes just days after a stabbing incident at nearby Penn Station, which sits directly beneath Madison Square Garden.
How to watch Knicks vs Spurs Game 3
Date: June 8, 2026
Venue: Madison Square Garden, New York
Tip-off Time: 8:30 PM ET
TV Channel: ABC
Game 3 will be followed by Game 4 on June 10, with the Spurs needing a victory to prevent the Knicks from moving to the brink of a historic NBA title.
2026 NBA Finals Schedule
- Game 1: Knicks defeated Spurs
- Game 2: Knicks defeated Spurs
- Game 3: June 8 – Madison Square Garden
- Game 4: June 10 – Madison Square Garden
- Game 5: June 13 (if necessary)
- Game 6: June 16 (if necessary)
- Game 7: June 19 (if necessary)
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