Knicks win huge against Heat in Game 4, sending fans into frenzy

After three deflating losses, the Knicks amazed their fans last night by defeating the mighty Miami Heat in Game 4, and the scene outside of Madison Square Garden was nothing short of triumphant.

"This is incredible, we finally broke the curse, it's been a long time since we won a playoff game," said Chris Cortes, 27, of Bushwick, who was in the stands for the 89-87 triumph that extended the best-of-seven series. "If they can keep playing with the intensity they did in the fourth quarter ... we can pull out another win."

Perfecto Deleon, also of Bushwick, turned 37 yesterday and said the Knicks winning "is the best birthday present I've ever gotten."

Referring the Knicks' just-ended streak of 13 straight postseason losses, he added: "If we can break one curse, we can break any curse."

Nick Beardsley, 29, who made the trip down from Mt. Vernon to attend the game, agreed.

"I can't even describe right now. This was an awesome game, the first game they actually had a chance at a win. It's unbelievable," Beardsley said. "You can't get any better than being in the playoffs in New York. It's incredible."

Seemingly forgotten was Amar'e Stoudemire's self-inflicted hand wound from punched a fire-extinguisher case in frustration after Game 2. Instead, Stoudemire, co-star Carmelo Anthony and company came out playing passionately, leading or staying within striking distance for the entire game.

The outcome was only decided after Heat star Dwyane Wade, flustered by the Knicks' swarming defense, attempted an off-balance 3-pointer with 1.6 seconds left that missed.

"It's amazing, it's great to see a win after so many losses," said Chuck Farrell, 29, of Williamsburg. "I feel so satisfied as a fan after what was looking like . . . a depressing loss."

For all the excitement, the Knicks' next task is to win Game 5 in Miami. However unlikely, the Knicks are three wins away from becoming the first team in NBA history to overcome a 3-0 playoff series deficit.

"I got confidence, and no matter what happens I'll always have confidence in the Knicks," Beardsley said. "[Forget] it, I think the Knicks are gonna go all the way."