New York City saw widespread disorder overnight after the New York Knicks secured their first NBA championship in more than five decades, with celebrations in parts of Manhattan escalating into vandalism, fires, and dozens of arrests, according to police.
The unrest unfolded late Saturday night and into early Sunday morning following the Knicks’ 94-90 victory over the San Antonio Spurs in Game 5 of the NBA Finals, clinching the franchise’s first title in 53 years.
Celebration Turns Destructive
What began as large-scale celebrations near Madison Square Garden and Times Square quickly deteriorated in several locations. Police said groups of fans damaged vehicles, including a marked police car that was vandalized outside Madison Square Garden. Video circulating on social media showed individuals standing on the vehicle and smashing its windshield.
Authorities also confirmed that multiple buses, including MTA and school buses, were damaged during the celebrations. In one incident, a school bus was set on fire while people were seen standing and dancing on its roof. Thick smoke was visible as flames engulfed the vehicle.
Several other trucks reportedly had their hoods torn off as crowds climbed onto vehicles parked along city streets.
Police Response and Arrests
The New York City Police Department moved in around 2:30 a.m., roughly an hour after the school bus fire was reported. Officers in riot gear and mounted units were deployed to disperse crowds and restore order in Midtown.
Police made dozens of arrests during the overnight response, though officials said a final tally would be released later Sunday. Footage from the scene showed officers taking individuals into custody amid ongoing crowd control efforts.
Emergency services warned residents and visitors to expect road closures and traffic delays in the area surrounding Madison Square Garden as crews worked to clear debris and assess damage.
Warnings Ahead of the Game
Prior to the game, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani urged fans to celebrate responsibly if the Knicks won. In a public message, he asked residents to look out for one another and ensure celebrations reflected the best of the city.
Despite those appeals, police said glass bottles were thrown, vehicles were damaged, and fires were set during the hours following the victory.
A Historic Win
The Knicks’ championship marks the team’s third NBA title, following previous wins in 1970 and 1973. It was also the franchise’s first appearance in the NBA Finals since 1999, when they lost to the Spurs.
New York closed the series with a 4-1 victory led by Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns, and OG Anunoby. The Spurs, led by Victor Wembanyama, struggled to recover after losing the first two games of the series at home despite holding double-digit leads.
One of the defining moments of the Finals came in Game 4, when the Knicks rallied from a 29-point deficit to win 107-106 on Anunoby’s tip-in with 1.2 seconds remaining.
Cleanup and Investigation
City crews continued cleanup operations Sunday morning, while investigators reviewed footage and damage reports from the overnight incidents. Police said they are still assessing the full scope of property damage tied to the celebrations.
Officials urged anyone with information related to criminal activity during the celebrations to contact authorities.
FAQs
Why were fans celebrating in New York?
The Knicks won their first NBA title in 53 years.
Where did the unrest take place?
Mainly near Times Square and Madison Square Garden.
What damage was reported?
Police cars, buses, and other vehicles were damaged.
Did police make arrests?
Yes, dozens of arrests were reported by NYPD.
Who did the Knicks defeat in the Finals?
The San Antonio Spurs.
