Jimmy Fallon Hails OG Anunoby’s Finals Heroics as Knicks Celebrate Title
During a championship celebration on late-night television, Jimmy Fallon praised OG Anunoby’s unforgettable Game 4 putback, a play that became one of the defining moments of the Knicks’ historic NBA title run.
- Glenn Catubig
- 4 min read
The New York Knicks’ long-awaited return to the top of the NBA produced countless memorable moments, but few stood out more than OG Anunoby’s dramatic late basket in Game 4 of the 2026 NBA Finals. The play helped complete a historic comeback and moved the franchise within one victory of its first championship in more than five decades.
As the celebrations continued following New York’s title-clinching victory, Anunoby joined teammates Mikal Bridges and Josh Hart on a special appearance with Jimmy Fallon. The group reflected on the postseason journey and revisited the moments that helped define one of the most significant seasons in franchise history.
Among the topics discussed was the dramatic finish to Game 4 against the San Antonio Spurs. That contest featured one of the most remarkable rallies ever seen in the Finals, turning what appeared to be a certain defeat into a victory that shifted the course of the series.
For Knicks fans, the moment remains etched into memory. For Fallon, a lifelong supporter of the franchise, the significance of the play extended far beyond basketball statistics. It represented a turning point in a championship story that had been decades in the making.
1. The Shot That Changed the Series
Game 4 began as a nightmare for New York. Playing at Madison Square Garden, the Knicks found themselves overwhelmed early as the Spurs built a massive advantage and appeared to be in complete control of the contest. By halftime, New York trailed by 29 points. The deficit was so large that many believed the series was headed back to San Antonio with the Finals potentially tied. Instead, the Knicks delivered one of the most extraordinary comebacks in NBA history. The second half saw New York gradually chip away at the lead through improved defense, timely shooting, and relentless energy. As the game entered its closing moments, the atmosphere inside Madison Square Garden transformed from frustration into anticipation. With the score hanging in the balance during the final seconds, Anunoby delivered the defining play. After a missed shot, he reacted quickly, tipping the ball into the basket with just 1.2 seconds remaining. The basket secured a dramatic 107-106 victory and gave New York a commanding 3-1 lead in the Finals.
2. Fallon’s Bold Assessment
During the team’s appearance on The Tonight Show, Fallon enthusiastically revisited the sequence and shared his admiration for the play. The television host spoke from the perspective of both an entertainer and a devoted Knicks fan. As highlights of the moment played, Fallon emphasized the magnitude of what had happened. The comeback itself was historic, but he believed the final basket elevated the moment even further. “It has to be one of the greatest plays in the history of sports,” Fallon said while discussing Anunoby’s game-winning putback. The statement reflected the emotional impact the play had on a fan base that had waited generations to experience another championship. While such praise naturally carries excitement and emotion, the reaction illustrated how deeply the moment resonated throughout New York. For many supporters, the shot instantly joined the list of iconic moments associated with the franchise’s greatest achievements.
3. Anunoby’s Lasting Impact
The dramatic finish in Game 4 was only one chapter in what became a breakthrough Finals performance for Anunoby. Throughout the championship series, he consistently delivered production on both ends of the floor. Across five Finals games, Anunoby averaged 21.2 points and 4.8 rebounds. His ability to contribute offensively while maintaining his trademark defensive intensity provided the Knicks with a dependable presence during critical moments. Although stars such as Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns attracted much of the attention throughout the postseason, Anunoby repeatedly proved capable of influencing games in decisive ways. His scoring efficiency, defensive versatility, and clutch performances helped elevate New York during its championship run. The late-night television appearance served as a celebration of those contributions. For Anunoby, Bridges, and Hart, it was an opportunity to reflect on a remarkable achievement. For Knicks fans, it was another chance to relive a moment that helped end a 53-year championship drought and secure a place in franchise history.