The New York Knicks faced a harsh reality in Game 3 against the Boston Celtics, suffering a 31-point defeat after leading the series 2-0. The Celtics capitalized on their shooting, significantly improving from their previous games to establish a commanding lead. Coach Tom Thibodeau stressed the need for a strong 48 minutes of play, highlighting the Knicks' recurrent issues such as inconsistency and poor three-point defense. Despite the setback, Knicks forward Josh Hart maintained a positive outlook, emphasizing the team's character and resilience.

As the Knicks prepare for Game 4, they aim to address critical areas, particularly their defensive lapses that allowed the Celtics to find their rhythm early. With the series still in their favor, the Knicks must focus on consistent performances and leverage their previous successes against Boston to reclaim momentum.

The New York Knicks have seized a commanding 2-0 lead over the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference semifinals, showcasing resilience by overcoming significant deficits in both games. OG Anunoby emerged as a pivotal player, demonstrating his clutch shooting in Game 1 with 29 points, including a stellar second half. However, his impact waned in Game 2, where he focused more on defensive duties against Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. The Knicks faced challenges in Game 3, with Anunoby scoring just two points on poor shooting and a team-low plus-minus. Josh Hart, a key contributor in Game 2, also struggled to have the same impact. For the Knicks to maintain their lead and push for a 3-1 advantage, a resurgence from Anunoby and his teammates is crucial, especially with concerns about Karl-Anthony Towns' injury.

Karl-Anthony Towns of the New York Knicks participated fully in practice on Sunday, while managing a finger injury as the playoffs progress. His teammate, Josh Hart, reassured that injuries are common in the playoffs, emphasizing the need for mental toughness. Towns expressed his determination to play, saying he will find ways to contribute despite the pain. The Knicks face a challenging Game 4 against the Boston Celtics, who also have their fair share of injuries, including Kristaps Porzingis dealing with a viral illness.

Towns' performance this season has been notable, averaging 24.4 points and 12.8 rebounds in the regular season. He has maintained similar numbers in the playoffs, despite his injury. Coach Tom Thibodeau reinforced that no player is at 100% this time of year, and adaptability is the name of the game in the postseason.

The Villanova Wildcats have made a splash in two significant locations recently: Manhattan and Vatican City. With the election of Pope Leo XIV, a proud alumnus of Villanova, the spotlight shifts to the university's rich basketball legacy. Known for producing NBA talent like Jalen Brunson, Mikal Bridges, and Josh Hart, Villanova's basketball program has seen unprecedented success. Brunson remarked on the excitement of this recognition, noting the school's positive reputation.

Historically, Villanova's men’s basketball team has made multiple NCAA Tournament appearances, but it was under the leadership of Jay Wright that they clinched national titles in 2016 and 2018. This juxtaposition of spiritual and athletic achievements has fueled a humorous narrative among Knicks fans, some jokingly attributing their playoff success to divine intervention following the papal election. As the Knicks strive for their first championship since 1973, the connection to Pope Leo XIV adds a unique twist to their journey.

The New York Knicks have surged ahead with a 2-0 lead over the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference Semifinals after securing two thrilling one-point victories on the road. In Game 2, the Knicks mounted an impressive comeback from a 20-point deficit, clinching a 91-90 win at TD Garden, bolstered by standout performances from Josh Hart, who scored 23 points, and Karl-Anthony Towns, contributing 21 points and 17 rebounds. Jalen Brunson showcased his clutch ability, hitting vital free throws late in the game.

The Celtics faced offensive struggles, particularly in the fourth quarter, where they missed 14 consecutive shots, managing just 17 points. Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown's shooting woes, with a combined 13-for-42, were exacerbated by the Knicks' stifling defense, spearheaded by OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges. Anunoby effectively limited Tatum's impact, while Bridges sealed the game with a critical steal in the closing seconds, a feat that marks him as the only player in the last two decades to achieve a last-second defensive stop in consecutive games under similar circumstances.

With the Knicks' versatile and intense defensive strategy proving effective, they now look to maintain their momentum as the series shifts to Madison Square Garden for Game 3 in their quest for a deep playoff run.