The score on the scoreboard stood at 40-38. The Knicks still led the Lakers by two points at home, exactly the same margin as at halftime.
After three quarters, the gap between the two teams remained just two points. The suspense was still at its peak, with neither side able to establish a decisive advantage.
Li Fei had put up 42 points, 8 rebounds, 5 blocks, and 3 assists through three quarters, maintaining his dominant performance. His mid-range shooting remained unstoppable, and he was protecting the Knicks on both ends of the floor.
Kobe had scored 32 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 assists through three quarters, giving everything he had. Again and again, he brought the Lakers level, proving his resilience with his performance.
O'Neal had recorded 10 points, 15 rebounds, and 3 blocks through three quarters. He was gradually finding his rhythm on offense, while remaining formidable on defense and erecting an interior barrier for the Lakers.
Sprewell had 6 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 steals. He remained outstanding defensively, tightly limiting Kobe's offense; Allan Houston had 12 points, 3 rebounds, and 4 assists, having fully recovered his touch and become Li Fei's capable right-hand man.
Sabonis had 4 points, 12 rebounds, and 6 assists, remaining the Knicks' interior hub with his excellent playmaking; Marshall had 8 points, 2 rebounds, and 2 assists, also making considerable contributions on both ends.
For the Lakers, Fisher had 4 points, 2 rebounds, and 2 assists, while Horry had 4 points and 3 rebounds. The other role players continued to perform poorly, unable to offer Kobe and O'Neal much help.
At the TNT commentary desk, Kevin Harlan looked at the scoreboard and said excitedly, "Three quarters are over, and it's still a two-point game. This game is truly too close!"
Marv Albert nodded.