Christmas Thriller: Knicks Hold off Spurs 117-114

The New York Knicks edged the San Antonio Spurs 117-114 in a thrilling Christmas Day matchup at Madison Square Garden. Mikal Bridges led the Knicks with a season-high 41 points, while Victor Wembanyama had a monster debut with 42 points, 18 rebounds, and four blocked shots.

The game was neck-and-neck until the final minutes, with the Spurs within one point with two minutes left. However, Bridges made consecutive jumpers to give the Knicks a five-point lead with 1:18 to play. The Spurs’ inability to secure defensive rebounds ultimately cost them the game, as Josh Hart grabbed two crucial misses in the final half-minute to run out the clock.

Karl-Anthony Towns added 21 points and nine rebounds for the Knicks, while Jalen Brunson scored 20 points. Jeremy Sochan had 21 points and nine rebounds for the Spurs.

The Knicks’ win marks their fifth consecutive victory, improving their record to 20-10. The Spurs, now 15-15, will face the Brooklyn Nets on Friday.