Spurs Coach Mitch Johnson Criticized for Embarrassing Game 5 Mindset
The New York Knicks hold a 3-1 series lead over the San Antonio Spurs in the 2026 NBA Finals after overcoming an 81-52 halftime deficit in Game 4, according to multiple witnesses and team officials. OG Anunoby and Jalen Brunson combined for 69 points during the comeback, which the Knicks described as one of the most improbable in sports history. San Antonio head coach Mitch Johnson maintained confidence in his team’s approach, stating, “We feel like we’ve decided the outcome of all four games.”
The Spurs led by 29 points in the second half of Game 4 before the Knicks staged a historic rally. Knicks forward Josh Hart emphasized the team’s incremental strategy during the comeback, saying, “You don’t look at when you’re down 29, we’ve got to whip this game. You look at it when you’re down 29 of OK, let’s get it to 20.” The Spurs’ collapse marked the largest lead lost in NBA Finals history, according to league records.
Johnson’s comments drew sharp criticism from NBA fans, who questioned his team’s mindset as the Spurs face elimination. One fan wrote, “What does this mean coach? That you and your team decided to lose 3 games which you led by double digits late?” Another remarked, “This is just so freaking embarrassing at this point.” A third fan argued, “They’ve been too high in their own talent this whole series and I think it’s been their downfall.”
Game 5 is scheduled for Saturday at 8:30 p.m. ET. The Spurs must win to extend the series, while the Knicks aim to secure their first championship since 1994. No official predictions about the outcome have been issued by either team.
What was the largest lead lost in NBA Finals history?
The San Antonio Spurs led by 29 points in Game 4 before the New York Knicks staged a comeback.
What did Spurs coach Mitch Johnson say about the Knicks?
Johnson stated, “By no means am I not acknowledging the Knicks and what they’ve done and give them credit for playing good basketball,” but added, “We feel like we’ve decided the outcome of all four games.”
When is Game 5 of the 2026 NBA Finals?
The game is set for Saturday at 8:30 p.m. ET.
How might the Spurs adjust their strategy to avoid another collapse in Game 5?