Sport: Basketball Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Stephen A. Smith blames Trump for Knicks' only Finals loss in 2026

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 18, 2026, 12:21 PM

Last updated Jun 18, 2026

Stephen A. Smith blames Trump for Knicks' only Finals loss in 2026

Summary

During the 2026 NBA Finals, the New York Knicks secured their first championship in 53 years after defeating the San Antonio Spurs. Despite their success, ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith attributed the Knicks' lone loss in the series to U.S. President Donald Trump's presence at Game 3 where the Knicks fell 115-111. Smith's remarks came during a segment where he discussed the Finals alongside WWE star Danhausen, who humorously claimed partial credit for lifting a curse on the team. Following the defeat, the Knicks rallied to win the championship in five games, almost succumbing to a comeback defeat in Game 4. This ongoing public back-and-forth between Smith and Trump may prompt further responses from the president.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Knicks won their first NBA title in 53 years in 2026
•Smith directly blamed Trump for the Knicks' only Finals loss
•Game 3 ended with the Spurs defeating the Knicks 115-111
•Knicks recovered to win the championship in five games
•Smith and Trump exchanged comments throughout the Finals

Latest Updates

12:21 PMYahoo Sports — ’That Was Donald Trump’ — Stephen A. Smith Doubles Down on Blaming President for Knicks’ Lone NBA Finals Loss

What they're saying

"
The New York Knicks had a nearly flawless championship run during the 2026 NBA Finals. Jalen Brunson and company stormed through the playoffs, won 15 of their final 16 postseason games, and delivered the franchise’s first NBA title in 53 years.
— Yahoo Sports

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