Knicks coach decries free‑throw disparity after 115‑111 loss to Spurs in NBA Finals

The New York Knicks fell to the San Antonio Spurs 115‑111 in Game 3 of the 2026 NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden, narrowing the series lead to 2‑1. Knicks head coach Mike Brown criticized the officiating, pointing out that the Spurs attempted 24 free throws in the second half while New York managed only eight. Brown said, “It’s surprising to see a team shoot 24 free throws in the second half against our eight… If we go into Game 4 and see a repeat of 24‑8, well, it won’t be pretty.”

During the opening quarter, Spurs rookie Victor Wembanyama shoved Knicks star Jalen Brunson, a contact that went uncalled. Brunson’s brief response was, “Whatever you saw is what you saw,” and he added that the team must learn and improve. The game also featured a technical foul on Knicks forward Josh Hart and a flagrant foul on Brunson. Spurs forward Stephon Castle hit a decisive three‑pointer and sank the final free throws to seal the win. The Knicks remain ahead in the series but face scrutiny over officiating and physical play heading into Game 4.