The New York Knicks produced one of the most remarkable comebacks in NBA playoff history on Tuesday night, overturning a 22-point fourth-quarter deficit to defeat the Cleveland Cavaliers 115-104 in overtime in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals. Jalen Brunson led the charge with a sensational 38-point performance.
For most of the contest, Cleveland appeared firmly in control, holding a commanding 93-71 lead with just under eight minutes remaining in regulation. However, Brunson ignited a dramatic turnaround, repeatedly attacking the defense and inspiring an 18-1 run that shifted the momentum back toward New York.
The Knicks captain stressed resilience as his team struggled for long stretches, urging his teammates to keep competing possession by possession. That mindset paid off as Brunson eventually tied the game at 101 with just seconds left, forcing overtime in a stunned arena.
Once in the extra period, New York surged ahead immediately, opening with a 9-0 run as the home crowd at Madison Square Garden erupted. The Knicks maintained control from there, moving within three wins of their first NBA Finals appearance since 1999.
Mikal Bridges contributed 18 points, while three other Knicks reached double figures, including OG Anunoby, who battled back into form after returning from injury. Karl-Anthony Towns credited the team’s defensive intensity for sealing the turnaround after a difficult shooting night.
Cleveland’s Donovan Mitchell led his team with 29 points, but the Cavaliers collapsed late after leading for most of the game. Coach Kenny Atkinson admitted his side dominated early but completely lost control in the final quarter.
The Knicks, who have now won eight straight games, will host Game 2 on Thursday as they aim to build on one of the most improbable postseason victories in recent memory.
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