Knicks Overcome Pistons' Hostile Crowd, Capture 2-1 Series Lead

During Game 3 of the NBA Playoffs, Detroit Pistons fans unleashed profane chants targeting New York Knicks star Jalen Brunson, trying to disrupt his focus in the team's first home playoff game in over six years. Despite the hostile environment, Brunson responded with a clutch performance, scoring 30 points—including key baskets in the final minutes—to lead the Knicks to a narrow 118-116 win and a 2-1 series lead. Both Brunson and Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau downplayed the impact of the crowd, with Brunson crediting Detroit fans for creating a special playoff atmosphere and Thibodeau noting that Brunson 'lives for that stuff.' Teammate Josh Hart and others emphasized that such chants are part of playoff basketball and don't distract the team from their goal. The intense fan energy highlighted the revived spirit in Detroit, but ultimately served to showcase Brunson's composure and clutch abilities. As the series continues, the Knicks regain homecourt advantage, while the Pistons look to bounce back in the next matchup.