Knicks Dominate 76ers in Historic Sweep, Fans Take Over Philadelphia
The New York Knicks have secured their spot in the Eastern Conference finals, achieving an NBA postseason record with 11 three-pointers in the first quarter during their 144-114 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers on Sunday. This win completed a commanding series sweep of the 76ers. Deuce McBride led the charge for the Knicks, sinking seven of their record-tying 25 three-pointers and scoring 25 points. Key contributions also came from Jalen Brunson with 22 points, and Josh Hart and Karl-Anthony Towns, each adding 17 points to this decisive playoff victory. This marks the Knicks' second consecutive appearance in the Eastern Conference finals, set to face the winner of the Cleveland-Detroit series, currently led by the Pistons 2-1. Last season, the Knicks reached the conference finals for the first time in 25 years but lost to Indiana. After that season, they replaced coach Tom Thibodeau with Mike Brown, who has now led the team to seven straight playoff wins. Knicks fans demonstrated their unwavering support by filling the arena in Philadelphia, waving "Always Knicks" towels and raising brooms outside the venue. Their enthusiasm was palpable, as they significantly outnumbered the home crowd, contributing to a raucous atmosphere. From the outset, the Knicks showcased their shooting prowess. McBride made history by being the first Knick to hit four three-pointers in a playoff quarter since the tracking began in 1997. The team ended the first half with 54 points from three-pointers, leading the 76ers by 24 points. Despite a strong performance from Joel Embiid, who scored 24 points, and Tyrese Maxey with 17, the 76ers are still searching for a way to advance past the second round for the first time since 2001. The final blow for Philadelphia came with the realization that their former first-round picks from 2018, Mikal Bridges and Landry Shamet, continue to thrive with the Knicks.
Source: The Guardian Sport - 2026-05-10