Knicks beat Pistons 111-97 to end three-game losing streak
The defending NBA champion Knicks snap their 0-3 start with a 111-97 win over the previously unbeaten Pistons.
The New York Knicks ended their winless start to the season with a dominant defensive performance, beating the Detroit Pistons 111-97 at Madison Square Garden. The Knicks had dropped their first three games and faced pressure to avoid becoming the second defending champion to start 0-4.
Karl-Anthony Towns led the way with 27 points and 19 rebounds, including 13 points in the decisive third quarter. The Pistons arrived undefeated but without injured stars Jalen Duren and Isaiah Joe.
After trailing by 13 early, the Knicks tightened their defence and held Detroit to just 25 points across the second and third quarters. Mikal Bridges added 12 points on efficient shooting.
Coach Mike Brown's defensive adjustments made the difference as New York controlled the game down the stretch.
- 111-97
- Final score
- 19
- Towns rebounds
- 3
- Consecutive losses to end
- 3-for-21
- Second-quarter Pistons shooting
Why it mattersThe defending champs needed this win to avoid an early-season collapse and prove they can compete at the level expected of a title holder.
AustraliaNo direct Australian impact, but some Australian NBA fans will be following the Knicks' title defence this season.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago
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