Mike Brown believes the Knicks didn't play their best after winning the first game of the Finals.

With points from Jalen Brunson, Anthony Towns, and Anunoby, the New York Knicks defeated the San Antonio Spurs 105-95 in the first round of the 2025/26 NBA Finals, securing a winning start.

According to the data, Jalen Brunson scored 30 points and had two assists in this key game, Anthony Towns scored 18 points and had 4 assists, while Anunoby contributed 17 points for the New York Knicks.

New York Knicks head coach Mike Brown said, "It's a great win for our players. But we felt like we didn't play to our full potential, and I believe the San Antonio Spurs probably felt the same way. It's positive to learn from the game, especially to win when you feel like you didn't play well; that kind of victory is even more valuable for learning."

"In the first half, the San Antonio Spurs completely dominated us in transition offense. They played at the pace we predicted before the game, scoring 24 fast break points in the first half. In the second half, they only scored 9 points in that area, so we were clearly better at transition defense."

Mike Brown pointed out, "We have to get back on defense quickly and establish a defensive line. We can't just run around with our own matchup because they have fast and athletic players, and Wambano will follow up from behind. He can shoot threes and also attack the basket directly."

"Our transition offense was noticeably more efficient in the second half. We must maintain this offensive rhythm because our opponents are simply too strong, and their defensive system is excellent. Our offensive rebounding and fast break ability is crucial, but more importantly, we need to convert those offensive rebounds into offense and score."

Furthermore, Mike Brown added, "We had to keep putting pressure on Champagne, who hit five three-pointers in the first half. In the second half, we did a better job with our perimeter rotations and help defense, trying our best to keep him away from the three-point line. Landry Shamet's performance off the bench was crucial; he scored 13 points and also contributed significantly on the defensive end. Anunoby gradually found his rhythm in the second half, and he was a huge help to the team in the latter part of the game."

"Jalen Brunson was the best player in the second half. He lived up to the expectations of an MVP-caliber player, including taking over the game in crucial moments and leading the team to victory. For me, the injury didn't seem to have a significant impact on him. He looked completely unaffected in the final stages of the game, so I don't think he's in any problems."

When asked about the team's mentality in turning the tide, Mike Brown said, "These players are really tough, and they tend to get better and better as the game goes on."

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