Stephen A. Smith Praises New York's Historic Comeback and Sends Love to Israel

ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith told Sport 5 that he had never seen a New York Knicks comeback like the one that erased a 29-point deficit, calling it extraordinary and historic. The Knicks are now one win from the NBA title and, if they beat San Antonio in Game 5, could reach the championship from a position the franchise has not occupied in decades.

Smith said he had seen teams recover from big holes before, but not New York in a game of this size. He compared it to other famous comebacks in sports and said, “I never saw New York as part of that,” especially not after trailing by 29. He credited Jalen Brunson for taking over, noted that OG Anunoby stepped up defensively, and said San Antonio also helped New York with mistakes.

He criticized several Spurs decisions, including Victor Wembanyama missing two free throws, the coach’s handling of Dylan Harper, and questionable shot selection late in the clock. Smith said San Antonio’s players failed in basic basketball situations, adding, “That was stupid basketball.”

Smith closed by saying he was in the crowd and that the Knicks are his lifelong team. He said that for the first time in 32 years, the team is 48 minutes from an NBA championship. He also addressed Israeli viewers directly, saying, “I love Israel,” that people in Israel are “great” and “wonderful basketball fans,” and that everyone he has met from Israel has been “wonderful.” He added that he hopes to visit someday and that “America loves you.”