Chaos Erupts at NBA Finals Watch Party in New York City

A watch party for Game 3 of the NBA Finals at Bryant Park turned chaotic on Monday night, resulting in fights, police using pepper spray, and at least six arrests.

The atmosphere in New York was electric, particularly as the Knicks played their first NBA Finals game since 1999. The excitement was further heightened by the presence of President Donald Trump at Madison Square Garden for the game.

Unfortunately for Knicks fans, the San Antonio Spurs spoiled the mood by winning 115-111. This led to some fans expressing their frustrations on the streets.

A significant brawl broke out in the vicinity of the official viewing party at Bryant Park, prompting police in riot gear to arrive and attempt to control the situation. Amid the unrest, pepper spray was used.

Many fans climbed onto vehicles and other structures. In a bizarre turn, one individual was seen swinging a bus sign taken from a nearby pole. As tensions escalated, chants of “Knicks in Five” filled the air while police restrained some individuals on the sidewalk.

According to the NYPD, a total of 21 people were arrested during the watch party. This included 13 for disorderly conduct and eight for various charges, such as assaults on officers and weapons possession. Those arrested for disorderly conduct were released after some time.

Earlier that day, New York City Mayor Zoran Mamdani had announced a free viewing party at Bryant Park for the President, after plans for a gathering outside Madison Square Garden were thwarted due to security concerns.

The next viewing party for Game 4 is expected to take place outside Madison Square Garden. Depending on the outcome—whether the Knicks take a 3-1 lead or the Spurs even the series at 2-2—anticipation for more excitement, or chaos, is already in the air.