Celebrations Turn Chaotic After Knicks Win NBA Championship
A teenager was shot and several buses were destroyed during disorderly scenes in New York City that overshadowed the jubilant celebrations following the New York Knicks' historic NBA championship victory.
The Knicks defeated the San Antonio Spurs 94–90 in game five on Saturday, securing the title for the first time in over fifty years.
Although the game took place in Texas, large crowds gathered in New York City to celebrate this significant achievement for the team and its fans.
As the crowds grew into the early hours, police reported gunfire near Times Square. A 17-year-old boy was wounded in the incident. Additionally, a school bus that had transported World Cup fans was set on fire. It remains unclear if anyone was injured in that specific event.
Calls for Restraint Amid Rising Tensions
Following the Knicks' victory against the Spurs in San Antonio, Knicks owner James Dolan urged fans to celebrate responsibly.
"We need to tell everybody in New York that we know that they're celebrating, we want them to have a great time," Dolan said, interrupting Knicks player Josh Hart's news conference. "Please be safe. Don't get hurt, don't hurt anybody."
Despite these appeals, parts of Manhattan experienced violent outbreaks during the celebrations.
NYPD Reports Destructive Behavior and Multiple Incidents
In a statement to the BBC, the New York Police Department (NYPD) described the crowds as becoming "increasingly destructive" with "many incidents of incredibly reckless and dangerous behaviour."
Five school buses were either set ablaze or damaged through acts such as being struck with bats and people jumping on them, according to the police. These buses had been used to transport World Cup football fans back to Times Square after the Brazil versus Morocco match.
Numerous individuals were seen climbing onto the roofs of the buses, entering inside, and posing for photographs.
Bystanders gathered around one bus as it was engulfed in flames, with some capturing images and videos of the scene.
Police vehicles were also targeted; some individuals used bats to damage them and jumped on top, breaking windshields.
Gunfire and Injuries Reported Near Times Square
Gunshots were reported near 42nd Street and Broadway at approximately 02:00 EDT (06:00 GMT), causing people to flee for safety.
A 17-year-old male was shot in the foot, with preliminary reports indicating no fatalities.
Other disturbances included four slashings and stabbings, destruction of private vehicles, the lighting of fireworks amid large crowds, brawls, and groups refusing to disperse, according to police reports.
Arrests and Police Response
The NYPD arrested 63 individuals during the unrest.
Charges filed included assault on a police officer, criminal possession of a weapon, criminal mischief, disorderly conduct, resisting arrest, and obstruction of governmental administration.
A substantial police presence was deployed in Manhattan, including officers on horseback, tasked with dispersing the crowds later in the night.
Some individuals threw objects such as street cones and bottles at police officers.
Ten officers sustained injuries overnight, including one who was punched in the face and another struck with a glass bottle.
Earlier Festive Atmosphere Across the City
Earlier in the evening, a celebratory mood prevailed throughout New York City.
Emergency service workers used loudspeakers to shout "Let's go Knicks," while strangers embraced and exchanged handshakes. Drivers honked their horns in jubilation.
Carol Marino, who watched the game in a bar, described the scene to news agency:
"Oh my God. It's like New Year's Eve times twenty,"
Mathieu Ogno, speaking to the Associated Press at a watch party in Central Park, expressed his excitement:
"I'm so overwhelmed. I'm so happy,"
Upcoming Official Celebrations
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani's office announced that official celebrations will be held on Thursday, including a parade and a ceremony at City Hall.
