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New York City erupted in celebration after the Knicks won their first NBA championship in more than 50 years, but some festivities quickly turned chaotic as police made arrests and reports of vandalism surfaced across Manhattan.
The Knicks defeated the San Antonio Spurs 94-90 in Game 5 of the NBA Finals on Saturday in Texas, capturing the franchise’s first championship since 1973 and sparking jubilant scenes throughout the city.
In the aftermath of the historic victory, some individuals were seen causing damage in videos circulating on social media.
One video appeared to show two people jumping onto the roof of an NYPD vehicle and smashing its windshield.
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Police officers prepare to disperse the crowd after the New York Knicks’ win against the San Antonio Spurs in Game 5 of the NBA Finals at Bryant Park in New York City, U.S., June 13, 2026. (REUTERS/Christian Monterrosa)
Another appeared to show individuals climbing on and entering school buses near Times Square.
Although the championship-clinching game was played thousands of miles away, police maintained a large presence around Madison Square Garden, the Knicks’ home arena.
Ahead of the game, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani urged fans to celebrate responsibly if the Knicks secured the franchise’s first NBA title in more than five decades.
“As we celebrate, be responsible, look out for one another, stay safe, be smart, and make this a night that reflects the very best of our city,” Mamdani wrote on social media. “Let’s go Knicks.”
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New York Knicks fans climb on buses as they celebrate after they win the NBA Finals in Times Square on June 14, 2026, in New York City. (Adam Gray/Getty Images)
Despite those calls, some celebrations turned disorderly after the final buzzer.
Officers in riot gear and on horseback worked to manage large crowds that poured into the streets following the win.
Additional videos posted online appeared to show police making arrests amid the celebrations.
The NYPD told Digital it expects to provide an update on the number of arrests later Sunday.
“We will advise total numbers later on in the day,” an NYPD spokesperson said.
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A fan celebrates the New York Knicks’ win against the San Antonio Spurs in Game 5 of the NBA Finals, on a street near Madison Square Garden, in New York City, U.S., June 14, 2026. (REUTERS/Christian Monterrosa)
Emergency officials warned residents and visitors to expect road closures and traffic delays in the area surrounding Madison Square Garden.
Authorities also urged anyone celebrating to follow NYPD instructions.
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New York Knicks fans climb on buses as they celebrate after they win the NBA Finals in Times Square on June 14, 2026, in New York City. (Adam Gray/Getty Images)
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
Digital’s Dan Zaksheske and Chantz Martin contributed to this report.
