The London-born NBA player OG Anunoby completed a historic comeback for the New York Knicks in Game Four of the NBA Finals, sending the crowd at Madison Square Garden into a frenzy, including pop star Taylor Swift.
Game Four Comeback
Trailing by as many as 29 points against the San Antonio Spurs, the Knicks clawed back to secure a stunning 107-106 victory. With just 1.2 seconds left on the clock, Anunoby flew in after a missed three-point attempt by Jalen Brunson and tipped the ball in, giving the Knicks a shocking lead. Moments earlier, he blocked De'Aaron Fox's lay-up attempt, preventing the Spurs from extending their lead.
Anunoby's Background
Anunoby was born in Harlesden, Brent, North West London, to Nigerian parents. He grew up playing football and supporting Arsenal, but as he grew taller, he shifted his focus to basketball. At age four, he moved with his family to Missouri, USA, but still retains a hint of his London accent. He attended Jefferson City High School and later played college basketball at Indiana University.
In 2017, the Toronto Raptors selected him with the 23rd pick in the NBA Draft. He was a key member of the Raptors' 2019 championship team, though he missed the playoffs due to emergency surgery. He became the first British player to win an NBA title. In 2023, he was traded to the New York Knicks, where he has become an elite two-way player.
Celebrity Fans
The Knicks' playoff run has drawn celebrities to courtside seats, including Taylor Swift, Ben Stiller, Timothée Chalamet, Spike Lee, and Larry David. Swift wore a 'Stevie Knicks' top, while her friends Alana and Este Haim wore 'Knickleback' and 'Knickole Kidman' tops respectively. Fans have reportedly spent over $20,000 or even millions on tickets to witness the Knicks' championship chase.
NBA Finals Format
The NBA Finals is a best-of-seven series between the Eastern and Western Conference champions. The Knicks lead 3-1, meaning they will win the championship if they take Game Five. If the Spurs win, the series will continue to Game Six and potentially Game Seven.
Game Five Details
Game Five is scheduled for Sunday, June 14 at 1:30 AM UK time in San Antonio. UK viewers can watch on Amazon Prime Video (£8.99/month or £95/year, with a 30-day free trial) or NBA League Pass. Students and young adults (18-24) receive a 50% discount on Prime Video.
