Despite the Knicks’ recent loss to the Spurs in Game 3, passionate fans are still hopeful about the team’s chances in the NBA Finals. The game, which took place at Madison Square Garden, saw the Spurs edge out the Knicks by just four points, breaking New York’s impressive 13-game winning streak.
However, many in the stands remain optimistic, with some expecting the Knicks to turn the tide and win by six points in the upcoming matches.
John Murray, a dedicated fan, shared his thoughts outside the arena, saying, “I’m a lifelong fan. This is my sixth year with the Knicks. I’m going to take my last paycheck home with the Garden.” Meanwhile, Vinicius Santos, 29, a fan watching from a nearby bar, expressed his confidence, stating he believes the Knicks will secure a victory.
“I think five, but I’m hoping for six because New York deserves to celebrate their championship in the Garden,” another fan remarked, reflecting the city’s spirit.
Some, however, acknowledged the possibility of losing, aware that the Spurs are a formidable opponent. Greg Armstrong, a 62-year-old New Yorker, noted, “Next time we have to win. I’m not worried. This team is resilient.” His friends from Harlem echoed this sentiment, focusing instead on the excitement of more games ahead.
“It’s a different game,” said Lorenz Gray, 31, using an age-old expression to reassure himself. “Rome wasn’t built in a day.” His friend, Avery Banks, added, “We love basketball. I don’t mind another match.” Yet, one disappointed fan couldn’t hold back his frustration, bluntly stating, “This is crap,” before rallying others to chant “Knicks in Six.” Some enthusiastic supporters even called for “Knicks in Five!” outside the Garden after the Spurs’ win.
Viewing parties were held across the city, including popular spots like Central Park and Bryant Park, as fans gathered to support their team together. This came after the city had to cancel gatherings outside the Garden due to safety concerns tied to President Trump’s attendance at the game. A significant security presence was established around the area as a precaution.
Anil Datwani, 48, from New Jersey, is hopeful about the Knicks but expressed some concern over Trump’s so-called “bad luck.” “We have to figure it out,” he mentioned before the game commenced.
David Cho, 32, from Manhattan, didn’t share those worries, emphasizing, “All that matters is the team’s success. They’re blocking out all distractions.” He focused solely on the hope for a win that night.
However, not all spectators were fixated on the game itself. A group of lively fans outside a watch party in Bryant Park caused some chaos, jumping on parked cars and hurling objects at police officers who arrived in riot gear. In the ruckus, one fan even set a Spurs shirt on fire while a crowd chased away Spurs supporters.
Police had to resort to using pepper spray to disperse the unruly crowd, resulting in multiple arrests for disorderly conduct and even an assault on an officer.
