Mikal Bridges Shines as Knicks Spoil Wembanyama’s Christmas Debut
Mikal Bridges led the Knicks to a thrilling victory over Wembanyama’s Spurs in a Christmas showdown at Madison Square Garden
New York, USA, Mikal Bridges, Victor Wembanyama, Knicks, Spurs, Christmas Game
New York: The Knicks and Spurs put on quite a show at Madison Square Garden. Victor Wembanyama had a Christmas debut that fans won’t forget anytime soon.
But despite his incredible performance, it wasn’t enough to snag a win. Mikal Bridges stepped up big time, scoring 41 points and leading the Knicks to a 117-114 victory.
The game was intense, with the Knicks rallying from a 102-94 deficit in the last few minutes. Wembanyama was a force, racking up 42 points and 18 rebounds, but the Knicks found a way to pull through.
Wembanyama’s 42 points marked one of the highest scores for a Christmas debut, just shy of Wilt Chamberlain’s record. He made history by being the first player to score over 40 points, grab 15 rebounds, and hit five 3-pointers in a Christmas game.
It was a back-and-forth battle from the start. The Knicks led by just one point after the first quarter. Wembanyama bounced back from a slow start, scoring 24 points in the first half and helping the Spurs take a 58-51 lead at halftime.
He kept the momentum going with his 3-point shooting, but the Knicks took charge in the third quarter, leading 88-83 going into the final period. The Spurs surged ahead with a quick run, but the Knicks answered back with three straight 3-pointers.
The lead changed hands several times before Bridges sealed the deal with a clutch jumper late in the game. He finished strong, contributing not just points but also assists and blocks.
Other players like Karl-Anthony Towns and Jalen Brunson also made their mark, but it was Bridges who stole the spotlight. Knicks fans left the arena buzzing, thrilled to see their team win on such a special day.