A watch party for Game 3 of the NBA Finals at Bryant Park in New York City escalated into violence on Monday night, resulting in multiple arrests and the deployment of pepper spray by police. The event marked the Knicks' first NBA Finals game since 1999, coinciding with heightened security due to President Donald Trump's attendance at Madison Square Garden.
Following the Knicks' loss to the San Antonio Spurs, fans engaged in disorderly conduct, leading to significant chaos in the streets. Police in riot gear intervened as large brawls broke out, and video footage captured instances of fans climbing on vehicles and structures. The NYPD reported that 21 individuals were arrested, with charges including disorderly conduct and assaulting officers. Thirteen of those arrested for disorderly conduct were later released.
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani had announced the watch party earlier that day after plans for an event outside Madison Square Garden were canceled due to security concerns. An official watch party for Game 4 is expected to take place outside Madison Square Garden, with anticipation of further disturbances.