NBA Finals: Game 5 Set in San Antonio
The NBA Finals are back on Saturday night, making a return to San Antonio for an important Game 5 after a brief two-day break.
As the Knicks stand just a game away from securing their first championship in over 50 years, New York City Mayor Zoran Mamdani reached out on social media to discuss how fans should conduct themselves.
“New York: Tonight, Knicks fans from across our city will gather at Plaza 33, Radio City Music Hall, and Wollman Rink outside MSG to watch Game 5 of the NBA Finals. My administration is proud to partner with the Knicks for these watch parties,” he mentioned.
The 34-year-old mayor also emphasized the importance of safety and respect among fans. “As we celebrate, let’s be responsible, take care of each other, stay safe, be smart, and make it a night that reflects the best of this city. Knicks, let’s go.”
Additionally, Mamdani recently announced that 10 LinkNYC kiosks around the city would stream the game, providing more opportunities for fans to enjoy it together.
In a surprising twist, the Knicks managed to recover from a 29-point deficit, taking a 3-1 series lead against the Spurs. “The Knicks belong to every New Yorker, whether you’re watching from the Garden or not,” he affirmed. “Earlier this week, New Yorkers gathered around the LinkNYC kiosks to watch the biggest comeback in basketball history. This weekend, we’re bringing it back. More than 100 kiosks will turn our sidewalks into watch parties and our streets into celebrations. The Knicks in Five.”
The mayor’s comments come in light of some troubling incidents involving Knicks fans mistreating Spurs supporters, with a few instances even escalating to violence. Following Game 2, 17 people were reported arrested at a viewing party near Madison Square Garden, where one person was taken into custody for allegedly assaulting a police officer.
Police noted that fans grew increasingly disorderly as the game went on. In another incident, Spurs star Victor Wembanyama faced hostility when an egg was thrown at him. Reports state that, as of Thursday, no arrests had been made related to that incident.
Game 5 is scheduled to start at 8:30 p.m. ET at Frostbank Center, with the Knicks leading the series 3-1.
