On Monday night, an NBA Finals watch party for the New York Knicks at Bryant Park turned chaotic as thousands of fans gathered to watch the game against the San Antonio Spurs. Tensions escalated when those without tickets remained outside, leading to clashes with police. Riot police were deployed, and pepper spray was used to control the disorderly crowd. Reports indicated that at least one fan threw a bottle at an officer, prompting a significant police response. Videos from the scene showed fans fighting, climbing on vehicles, and vandalizing property, including setting fire to a Spurs T-shirt. The NYPD confirmed one arrest for assaulting an officer and at least six others for disorderly conduct. The watch party was organized just hours before the game after a previous event was canceled due to President Donald Trump's visit to Madison Square Garden. Mayor Zohran Mamdani had promoted the gathering as a unifying celebration for Knicks fans across New York City.