Knicks look to take 3-0 lead in NBA Finals series against Spurs at MSG
Knicks bring 2-0 NBA Finals lead home to MSG for Game 3
The NBA Finals are back in New York City as the Knicks look to extend their lead Monday night.
NEW YORK CITY - For the first time in decades, the NBA Finals have returned to New York City, with a chance for the Knicks to pull within just one win of their first title in over 53 years.
What we know:
On Monday night, the New York Knicks will host the San Antonio Spurs for Game 3 of the NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden. Tip-off is scheduled for shortly after 8:30 p.m.
The Knicks are squarely in control of this series after stealing the first two games on the road in San Antonio. No team in NBA Finals history has ever lost the first two games at home and gone on to win the championship.
New York is also riding an incredible wave of momentum, having won 13 playoff games in a row. While sweeps in the NBA Finals are rare, fans are still buzzing with hope.
Bryant Park added to watch party locations for Knicks Game 3: Here's where to watch
The Knicks are bringing a 2–0 NBA Finals lead back home to Madison Square Garden on Monday night, but fans looking to rally outside the arena will need to head a few blocks east.
'Magical postseason'
What they're saying:
New Yorkers are reveling in a moment they've waited a long time for, soaking up the atmosphere of a winning franchise.
"It’s been a magical postseason run," one fan shared ahead of tip-off.
For many, the success is a desperately needed breath of fresh air for the city's sports scene. "It’s crazy," another fan added. "We haven’t had a New York sports team that’s like, good in a while."
Expectations are sky-high, with some fans already predicting a quick end to the series. "I think it’s going to be a sweep, to be honest," one fan said.
No watch party outside MSG for Knicks Game 3 on Monday night
There will officially be no outdoor watch party for fans to cheer on the Knicks as they bring the NBA Finals home with a 2-0 lead over the San Antonio Spurs.
Players stay grounded
The other side:
Despite the historic postseason run and the excitement of the fan base, the Knicks' leaders remain focused on the ultimate goal.
"It's really cool. 27 years since the last Finals game in this building. I know our fan base is really excited, as it should be, but as a team, for us inside the locker room, we have more work to do," Jalen Brunson said.
"To be able to lace the shoes up, be able to put the jersey on and be able to see our fans see Finals basketball... this time is going to be really, really special," Karl-Anthony Towns said.
The Source: Information from this article was sourced from reporting by FOX 5.