Sports

Knicks' Josh Hart Made NBA Finals History in Game 1

The New York Knicks came into San Antonio and stole Game 1 of the 2026 NBA Finals from the Spurs, notching a 105-95 final score at the Frost Bank Center.

Knicks veteran Josh Hart played 27 minutes in the series-opening contest, scoring just three points. However, his impact on the game extended far beyond the scoring column.

Hart finished the game with 15 rebounds, six assists and four steals - all of which marked game highs. With this stat line, he became the first player in NBA Finals history to lead both teams outright in each of those three categories, according to ESPN Insights.

More Basketball:Spurs' Stephon Castle Reacts to Knicks Fans Invading San Antonio

Hart’s impact did not go unnoticed in Game 1.

Both Knicks head coach Mike Brown and superstar point guard Jalen Brunson talked about how Hart can completely alter a game without scoring.

“He impacted the game in so many different ways for us that when you look at what he shot from the field, you wouldn’t think that he was probably the most impactful guy on the game last night,” Brown said.

“He’s always been that way,” Brunson added. “He just has a knack for doing things like that in crucial times, as well.”

More Basketball:Knicks' Karl-Anthony Towns Embraces His Role With Humble Mindset

Hart shot 1 of 5 from the field and 0 of 3 from behind the 3-point line, but continued to provide energy and effort for his team as they notched their Game 1 victory.

“Humility and a willingness to sacrifice,” Hart said on Thursday. “It takes a little time to find that humility. For me, I found it with prayer and my faith.

“When you have a group of guys that have that willingness to sacrifice, that humility - that breeds a championship culture.”

Game 2 will tipoff at 8:30 p.m. ET on Friday.

2026 NEWSWEEK DIGITAL LLC.

This story was originally published June 4, 2026 at 5:46 PM.

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