Sunday's NBA action delivered a series of thrilling matchups and notable performances. The New York Knicks ended the San Antonio Spurs' impressive 11-game winning streak, while several other teams across the league also secured significant victories. From clutch performances to dominant displays, the day was packed with basketball excitement. This roundup captures the key outcomes and standout players from the various contests, offering a comprehensive overview of the day's events in the National Basketball Association.
NBA Sunday Showcases Knicks' Dominance and League-Wide Action
In a compelling showdown on Sunday afternoon, March 1, 2026, the New York Knicks delivered a commanding 114-89 victory over the San Antonio Spurs at Madison Square Garden in New York, effectively snapping the Spurs' impressive 11-game winning streak. Mikal Bridges led the charge for the Knicks, tallying an impressive 25 points, including five successful three-pointers. Jalen Brunson contributed significantly with 24 points and seven assists, aiding the Knicks in securing their 14th win in 18 games. This victory also avenged their previous 132-134 loss to the Spurs on New Year's Eve. For the Spurs, Victor Wembanyama recorded 25 points and 13 rebounds, while Devin Vassell added 18 points. This marked San Antonio's first defeat since January 31, ending a significant run.
In other league news, the Cleveland Cavaliers clinched a narrow 106-102 win against the Brooklyn Nets. James Harden, returning from a thumb injury, showcased his prowess with 22 points, nine rebounds, and eight assists. Jarrett Allen added 20 points for Cleveland. The Boston Celtics overpowered the Philadelphia 76ers with a 114-98 score, highlighted by Neemias Queta's career-best 27 points and 17 rebounds, and Jaylen Brown's 27 points, eight rebounds, and eight assists. Tyrese Maxey led the 76ers with 33 points. The Los Angeles Lakers secured a 128-104 win over the Sacramento Kings, with Luka Doncic scoring 28 points and LeBron James adding 24 points. The Chicago Bulls ended an 11-game losing streak by defeating the Milwaukee Bucks 120-97, largely due to Josh Giddey's triple-double of 20 points, 14 rebounds, and 10 assists, and Collin Sexton's game-high 22 points. The Minnesota Timberwolves moved ahead in the Western Conference standings by beating the Denver Nuggets 117-108, fueled by Anthony Edwards' 21 points and Jaden McDaniels' 20 points. The Memphis Grizzlies triumphed over the Indiana Pacers 125-106, with Taylor Hendricks achieving a career-high 19 points. The Atlanta Hawks continued their winning streak, extending it to four games with a 135-101 victory against the Portland Trailblazers, where Onyeka Okongwu scored 25 points and secured his 15th double-double. The Detroit Pistons defeated the Orlando Magic 106-92, led by Cade Cunningham's 29 points and 11 assists. Finally, the Oklahoma City Thunder conquered the Dallas Mavericks 100-87, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander contributing 30 points, marking his 123rd consecutive game with 20 or more points.
These Sunday games underscored the dynamic and unpredictable nature of the NBA. The Knicks' victory over the Spurs, a significant upset given the Spurs' winning streak, serves as a testament to the league's competitive balance. Each game presented its own narrative, from individual brilliance to team resilience, reminding fans why basketball remains a globally celebrated sport. The outcomes also offered crucial insights into the evolving playoff picture as teams continue to battle for positioning.