OG Anunoby’s Game-Winning Tip-In Could Be the Most Iconic Shot in Knicks History

A last-second tip-in by OG Anunoby in Game 4 of the NBA Finals against the San Antonio Spurs has ignited a debate: could it be the most iconic shot in New York Knicks history? Knicks coach Mike Brown certainly believes so, going as far as to call it the greatest shot ever taken in the basketball capital of the world.

The dramatic basket, which came with just 1.2 seconds remaining, secured a stunning 107-106 victory for the Knicks after they had trailed by as many as 29 points in the second half. This remarkable comeback now places the Knicks one win away from an NBA championship.

A Defining Moment

Brown’s assessment of Anunoby’s tip-in carried significant weight. “I don’t know if there was a play bigger than any other play in the history of Knicks basketball,” Brown stated. He elaborated, “That has to be the most iconic shot in the history of New York basketball.” While acknowledging the expertise of reporters, he expressed his strong conviction in the shot’s historical significance.

Anunoby himself described the feeling as “cool” and noted the palpable excitement among his teammates and himself. He was instrumental in the Knicks’ victory, not only with the game-winning basket but also by scoring 33 points and making seven three-pointers.

The Play Unfolds

On the Knicks’ final possession, Anunoby acted as the inbound passer, finding Jalen Brunson for a missed three-point attempt. Anunoby then drove hard to the rim, appearing to outjump Spurs rookie Dylan Harper and veteran Victor Wembanyama for the rebound. With the ball sailing over his head, Anunoby managed a soft tip-in that found the bottom of the net.

“He got a pretty good look and I just went and crashed,” Anunoby explained. “Tried to get a tip-dunk or something. The ball went over my head, so I couldn’t really dunk it. So I tried to tip it in softly and it went in.”

Harper acknowledged the role of the rim bounce and Anunoby’s execution. “I definitely thought I had a hand on it. I definitely think I helped put the ball in the rim. But just got to box out,” he said, reflecting on the play.

Comparing to Knicks Lore

Brown’s bold claim invites comparisons to other legendary shots in Knicks history. Notable moments include Larry Johnson’s four-point play in the 1999 Eastern Conference Finals and Allan Houston’s series-winning shot in the first round against Miami that same year. Even Willis Reed’s iconic jumpers to start Game 5 of the 1970 NBA Finals, played through injury, are often cited.

However, the context of Anunoby’s tip-in – a record-breaking 29-point comeback in the NBA Finals to bring the team to the brink of a championship – elevates its significance. Anunoby, the only player on the current Knicks roster with a championship ring, delivered a moment that may well stand the test of time.

Key facts

The impact of Anunoby’s shot extends beyond the immediate victory. It provides a potential defining moment for this Knicks team and its fanbase, a narrative that will be replayed and discussed for years to come. While Anunoby himself is focused on the next game, the rest of New York will likely be celebrating this unforgettable tip-in.

Source: The Athletic – https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7350412/2026/06/11/og-anunoby-knicks-spurs-iconic-shot-game-4/