The New York Knicks overcame a 29-point second-half deficit to defeat the San Antonio Spurs 107-106 in Game 4 of the NBA Finals on June 10, taking a 3-1 series lead [1, 2].
Jose Alvarado played a key role in the comeback, scoring eight points in the fourth quarter alone [1, 2]. He was on the court only briefly in the first half, playing three scoreless minutes during which he committed a turnover and two fouls, including one while defending San Antonio’s 7-foot-4 Victor Wembanyama, who stands 16 inches taller [2].
Alvarado sparked the Knicks’ rally by hitting a crucial corner three-pointer to start an 8-0 run. He followed with a driving layup and nailed a late-clock three-pointer to seal New York’s narrow victory [2]. Former high school coach Joe Arbitello, who coached Alvarado at Christ the King High School in Brooklyn and Queens, predicted his former player would do "something real special if he gets back in the game" [1].
Alvarado is a New York native who grew up in Brooklyn and Queens. His gritty style drew praise from analyst Richard Jefferson, who said, "That's the type of basketball they play in The Cage over here in New York" [2]. After the game, Alvarado described it simply as "What a f---ing game" [2].
The Knicks now hold a 3-1 series lead in the NBA Finals and can clinch the championship in the next game.
