The basketball gods are smiling on New York City, folks. And brother, it's been a long time coming.
The New York Knicks demolished the Cleveland Cavaliers 121-108 in Game 3 on Friday night, taking a commanding 3-0 series lead in the Eastern Conference Finals. One more win and they're heading to the NBA Finals for the first time since 1999.
But here's what makes this special - this isn't just a hot streak. This is historic dominance.
The Knicks have now won 10 straight playoff games, tied for the 4th-longest streak in NBA history. They're outscoring opponents by a staggering 234 points through 13 playoff games. Let me put that in perspective for you: every other team in NBA history to dominate the playoffs like this - the 2017 Warriors, the 1987 Lakers, the 1971 Bucks, the 1996 Bulls - they all won championships.
"This is what we came here to do," Jalen Brunson said after dropping 30 points, according to ESPN. "One game at a time, one possession at a time."
Six different Knicks scored in double figures. Mikal Bridges was unconscious with 22 points on 11-of-15 shooting. OG Anunoby added 21. This is a complete team playing complete basketball.
The Cavaliers? They looked like a team that knows it's over. Cleveland fans started heading for the exits with three minutes left. The defense gave up. You could see it in their eyes.
Madison Square Garden is going to be absolutely electric for Game 4. The Knicks are 27 years removed from their last Finals appearance, and this city is ready to explode. The parade route is probably already being planned.
That's what sports is all about, folks. The long-suffering franchise. The patient fans. The moment when everything finally comes together. We're witnessing something special in New York.
