Barkley rips Fox and the Spurs: “The dumbest team in history”

The Spurs had Game 4 all but wrapped up. Early in the third quarter, the scoreboard showed a comfortable 29-point lead, and everything pointed toward a series tied at 2-2. Instead, by the end of a night destined to be remembered in NBA Finals history, the New York Knicks had completed a stunning comeback, winning 107-106 and taking a commanding 3-1 series lead.

The game was ultimately decided by OG Anunoby. First, he blocked a layup attempt by De’Aaron Fox with less than ten seconds remaining. Then, with 1.2 seconds left, he delivered the game-winning tip-in. Two plays that completely changed the course of the game.

De’Aaron Fox’s costly mistake

The play that continues to generate debate is the block on Fox. With the Spurs holding a one-point lead and possession of the ball, the safer option appeared to be running down the clock and forcing New York to foul. Instead, the former Kings guard attacked the rim, attempting to extend the lead to three points.

A decision that proved costly.

After the game, Charles Barkley did not hold back during Inside the NBA.

We just witnessed the dumbest team in the history of civilization. They had a 25-point lead and took eight straight threes. It was one of the worst game-management performances I’ve ever seen

Charles Barkley

The Hall of Famer criticized San Antonio’s overall execution down the stretch.

When you blow a 29-point lead, the other team has to get some help. San Antonio helped New York win by doing ridiculous things on the court

Charles Barkley

Barkley then specifically targeted Fox’s decision on the final possession.

It was a stupid play. There was absolutely no reason for him to shoot. All he had to do was protect the ball and get fouled

Charles Barkley

Magic Johnson and Isiah Thomas also criticize Fox

Barkley’s assessment was echoed by other NBA legends.

Magic Johnson praised the Knicks’ comeback, calling it one of the most remarkable rallies ever seen in the Finals, while highlighting Jalen Brunson’s 36-point performance and Anunoby’s decisive impact.

The Lakers legend also pointed to Fox’s mistake.

De’Aaron Fox made a major mistake. With only a few seconds left, he should have managed the possession and waited for the foul. Instead, he went looking for the basket

Magic Johnson

Isiah Thomas was equally direct on social media.

Fox, come on. Either dunk it or let the clock run out

Isiah Thomas

Fox explains the decision after the loss

Speaking after the game, Fox did not shy away from responsibility and explained what led him to attack the basket.

I simply thought I could beat him with my speed

De’Aaron Fox

He then added:

I wanted to score and go up by three, forcing them to look for a three-pointer. Anunoby made a great block

De’Aaron Fox

The loss leaves the Spurs in an extremely difficult position. Instead of heading into a 2-2 series, San Antonio will return to the Frost Bank Center for Game 5 trailing 3-1.

It is a mountain to climb, considering that only one team in NBA Finals history – the 2016 Cleveland Cavaliers – has ever overcome such a deficit.

For the Spurs, the focus now shifts to taking things one game at a time. After watching a 29-point lead disappear, the team’s emotional and mental response will be the most important factor heading into a Game 5 that could determine the fate of their entire season.