The New York Knicks are one win away from a championship, and for wing OG Anunoby, the path to closing out the San Antonio Spurs in Game 5 starts with a mindset that has nothing to do with complex playbooks or last-second adjustments. He summed it up bluntly: it’s about sticking with what’s worked — and not overthinking.
According to ESPN, Anunoby spoke before the potentially series-clinching Game 5 about the mentality that has carried his team through every previous playoff series this season. The Knicks have swept aside every opponent they’ve faced on the road, winning each closeout game by 30 or more points. For Anunoby, the formula is simple — maintain the same aggression and defensive focus that’s made them nearly unbeatable when it counts.
“It’s going to take more of the same mentality to eliminate the Spurs on their homecourt,” Anunoby said, per ESPN. The comment reflects a quiet confidence that’s defined the Knicks’ run. They haven’t relied on heroics or lucky breaks; they’ve leaned into a controlled, relentless style of play that has overwhelmed opponents late in series.
The Spurs, meanwhile, are fighting to extend their season. Down 3-1, San Antonio will be desperate on their home floor, led by Victor Wembanyama and a resilient veteran core. The Knicks have not confirmed any last-minute tweaks to their game plan, but Anunoby’s remarks suggest they are sticking with the identity that got them here — tenacious defense, ball movement, and a refusal to let up.
New York’s Closeout Dominance
The Knicks’ ability to close out series away from home has been a defining storyline. In the first round, the conference semifinals, and the conference finals, they finished the job on the road — and by large margins. That pattern has given the team a psychological edge, but also raised the stakes. A loss in Game 5 would send the series back to New York, where the Spurs have already stolen a win in Madison Square Garden.
Anunoby has been a crucial two-way presence throughout the playoffs, and his performance in Game 4 — including a defensive stop that fans online compared to Michael Jordan’s iconic closing moments — placed him in exclusive company. The team’s ability to rely on him in clutch situations is a major reason they head into Game 5 with confidence.
What’s at Stake
A win would secure the Knicks’ first NBA title since 1973. The Spurs are fighting to become the first team ever to come back from a 3-1 deficit in the NBA Finals. Game 5 tips off tonight, and all eyes are on whether New York’s quiet, disciplined approach will be enough to finish the job.
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