Fez– What began as a night of celebration for New York Knicks fans turned into scenes of violence and chaos after the team won its first NBA championship in more than 50 years.
Thousands of fans flooded the streets of New York City on Saturday night after the Knicks defeated the San Antonio Spurs 94-90 in Game 5 of the NBA Finals, securing the franchise’s first title since 1973.
But the celebrations quickly spiraled out of control, leaving dozens arrested, several people injured, and multiple vehicles destroyed.
According to the New York Police Department, a 17-year-old boy was shot in the foot near Times Square at around 2 a.m. local time.
Authorities said the teenager was taken to hospital in a police vehicle because heavy crowds prevented an ambulance from reaching the scene.
Three people of interest were taken into custody, and officers recovered a firearm.
Police said at least five yellow school buses were either set on fire or severely damaged.
The buses had been used earlier in the evening to transport fans attending the FIFA World Cup match between Morocco and Brazil back to Times Square.
Videos and photos shared on social media showed crowds climbing onto the buses, smashing windows, and taking pictures as flames engulfed the vehicles.
Police cars were also attacked, with some people jumping on them and using bats to shatter windshields.
In a statement, the NYPD said the crowds became “increasingly destructive” and engaged in “reckless and dangerous behaviour.”
The department reported additional incidents including four stabbings or slashings, fights, fireworks launched into crowds, and damage to private property.
A total of 63 people were arrested overnight on charges ranging from assault on a police officer and weapons possession to disorderly conduct and resisting arrest.
Ten police officers were injured during the unrest, including one officer who was punched in the face and another who was struck with a glass bottle.
The violence overshadowed what had initially been an emotional night for Knicks fans.
Across the city, supporters celebrated in bars, parks, and on the streets as emergency workers joined chants of “Let’s go Knicks” and strangers embraced in celebration.
Earlier in the evening, Knicks owner James Dolan had urged fans to celebrate responsibly.
“We want them to have a great time,” Dolan said after the game. “Please be safe. Don’t get hurt, don’t hurt anybody.”
Despite the unrest, city officials confirmed that official celebrations will go ahead later this week, including a victory parade and a ceremony at City Hall organized by the office of New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani.
