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Jalen Brunson anticipates tougher Spurs defense in NBA Finals matchup

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 3, 2026, 7:07 AM

Last updated Jun 3, 2026

Jalen Brunson anticipates tougher Spurs defense in NBA Finals matchup

Summary

Jalen Brunson and the New York Knicks face the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA Finals, their first appearance since 1999. Brunson expects increased defensive challenges, particularly from Spurs guard Stephon Castle, who narrowly missed the 2026 All Defensive Team. Castle, known for his intensity, prepares to confront Brunson, who has been effective against defenses throughout the playoffs. Both teams anticipate an exciting series, with Game 1 scheduled for Wednesday.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Knicks enter NBA Finals for the first time since 1999
•Brunson credits Spurs' Victor Wembanyama as a defensively
•Stephon Castle is Spurs' starting guard and third top scorer
•Castle narrowly missed the All Defensive Team with 46 votes
•Game 1 of the Finals is set for Wednesday

Latest Updates

7:07 AMYahoo Sports — Jalen Brunson Expects to See Tougher Defense from Spurs, Names Young Guard Who Slightly Missed 2026 Defensive Team

What they're saying

"
James Harden’s defense on Jalen Brunson was the main issue about the Cleveland Cavaliers during their Eastern Conference Finals series with the New York Knicks. That was obviously not an issue to Brunson as his Knicks went on to win in just four games. The Knicks have entered the NBA Finals, the first since 1999, [...]
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Cleveland Cavaliers New York Knicks Oklahoma City Thunder San Antonio Spurs NBA Basketball