Knicks vs Spurs First Basket Prediction & Best Bets for 2026 NBA Finals Game 1

Germantas Kneita

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Like most Lithuanians, I started watching basketball from the age of six. I'm based out in London and played basketball at the University of Lincoln here in the UK. I had always had an interest in the NBA but things really took off in the summer of 2010. That year Linas Kleiza led Lithuania to 3rd place at the World Championships and signed with the Toronto Raptors to replace the departing Chris Bosh. I've been a Raptors fan since that day and I've not missed a game since. I've been handicapping games for more than a decade, specializing in player props. For Germantas Kneita media enquiries, please email contact@pickswise.com.

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Knicks vs Spurs first basket best bet: Stephon Castle (+750)

When it comes to winning the opening tip, Victor Wembanyama is a cheat code. He is by far the tallest player in the NBA, measuring in at 7’4” inches tall. That number is disputed in league circles and it would not be surprising to find out he is taller than that. All that means that he has helped the Spurs to win 79% of their opening tips. He has taken on the New York Knicks twice this season and helped his team gain the opening possession on both occasions. As a result, it should favor the Spurs to open the scoring in the NBA Finals.

The Knicks starting lineup has some great individual defenders, with Mikal Bridges and OG Anunoby standing out. However, Jalen Brunson is someone that can be targeted. And with Karl-Anthony Towns bring far from a standout rim protector, the Spurs could explore attacking the paint with one of their guards early. De’Aaron Fox really struggled to get his offense going in the Thunder series, shooting just 36.5% from the field. As a result, do not be surprised to see his backcourt running mate Stephon Castle get the first shot.

Castle has the size advantage over Brunson and the physical strength not to be pushed around by the Knicks guard. While he has been 4th in first baskets made among the Spurs this season, the matchup should allow him to get the first look. He played a major role for the Spurs in their last series, averaging 18 points per game and I expect him to be aggressive and look to maintain his offensive form from the get go here.