SouthernWorldwide.com – The New York Police Department’s decision to allow public watch parties outside Madison Square Garden for the NBA Finals may be a decision they are reconsidering after the events that transpired following Game 2.
Initially, the NYPD had prohibited these outdoor gatherings due to the rowdy behavior observed during the Knicks’ Eastern Conference Finals run. However, with the Knicks securing their first NBA Finals berth since 1999, the ban was lifted, and the city was encouraged to celebrate.
While the Knicks are set to return home with a commanding 2-0 series lead on Monday, the victory in Game 2, a monumental achievement for the team and its fans, was marred by unruly conduct outside the iconic arena.
Following the Knicks’ nail-biting 105-104 win over the San Antonio Spurs, reports from ABC7 indicated that 17 individuals were arrested. Among these arrests, one person faces charges for allegedly assaulting and injuring a police officer.
Authorities stated that the crowd’s behavior escalated, becoming increasingly disorderly as the game progressed. The injured officer was reportedly punched by a fan who had entered a restricted area and refused to leave.
In addition to the assault, another individual was arrested on charges of selling counterfeit merchandise and was found to be in possession of a loaded firearm.
The NYPD reported that fans disrupted traffic on Seventh and Eighth Avenues, between 31st and 35th streets. Some were observed climbing on light poles, subway entrances, and even food vendor carts.
Madison Square Garden itself also hosted official watch parties inside the arena for both of the initial Finals games, offering a more controlled environment for fans.
The Game 2 matchup was a dramatic affair. The Spurs managed to overcome a 14-point deficit to take the lead in the final minute. However, with the score tied at 104, a crucial turnover occurred. Victor Wembanyama’s pass inadvertently hit a teammate’s back, allowing Jalen Brunson to steal the ball. Brunson was subsequently fouled and made one of his two free throws to give the Knicks the lead. Wembanyama had an opportunity to win the game at the buzzer but missed his shot.
Game 3 is scheduled to take place in New York on Monday night. Notably, President Donald Trump is expected to be in attendance for the game.
