Mitch Johnson and the San Antonio Spurs find themselves facing a critical challenge as the 2026 NBA Finals shift to Madison Square Garden. As the Spurs are tailing 2-0 in the series against the New York Knicks, they are running out of room for error.
However, the atmosphere around the team remains positive as they prepare for a pivotal Game 3 on the Knicks’ home court.
Speaking to reporters ahead of the matchup, Johnson expressed confidence in his team's preparation.
"The biggest thing is we've put in some good hard work at times and have not taken advantage of that hard work, and that's been partially, some undisciplined things on us, and partially also, [the Knicks] stepped up and made some plays,” Johnson said.
The first two games of the series have proved the difference between a seasoned Knicks squad and a talented but youthful Spurs roster. San Antonio showed its potential by building double-digit leads in both contests, only to see those advantages disappear under the Knicks’ relentless defensive pressure and late-game execution.
The stakes could not be higher for the Spurs, as a loss in Game 3 would put them in a 3-0 hole. It is a deficit no team in NBA history has ever overcome in a playoff series.
Meanwhile, Johnson also offered insight into how he and his coaching staff approach setbacks after difficult losses.
"You dig into the film, you argue, you beat yourself up, you give each other feedback, figure out how to help the guys for the next game,” Johnson said.
The Spurs arrived at Madison Square Garden determined to change the narrative of the series. Dressed in black and embracing the underdog mentality, San Antonio enters Game 3 with the goal of stealing a crucial road victory from the Knicks in one of basketball's most iconic arenas.
If the Spurs can limit their live-ball turnovers and hit a few more free throws, they have the talent to steal Game 3 on the road.
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