NEW YORK — New York City police arrested dozens of people following fan unrest outside Madison Square Garden after the New York Knicks' historic comeback victory in Game 4 of the NBA Finals, authorities said.
The Knicks defeated the San Antonio Spurs 107-106 on Wednesday night in a 29-point comeback, the largest in NBA Finals history, officials and league records confirmed. Celebrations by thousands of fans quickly turned unruly in Midtown Manhattan, prompting a significant police response.
The New York Police Department reported that 56 people were taken into custody. Of those, 15 were formally arrested and 41 received criminal court summonses, according to NYPD statements. Charges included assault on a police officer, criminal possession of a weapon such as a knife, reckless endangerment, criminal mischief, disorderly conduct, resisting arrest, obstruction of governmental administration and trademark counterfeiting.
Fans gathered for a watch party near Madison Square Garden, with crowds estimated at more than 6,000 in some reports. Some climbed scaffolding, blocked traffic, set off fireworks and engaged in fights as the celebration escalated, police said. One officer was reportedly injured in earlier incidents during the Finals, though details on injuries from Wednesday night were not immediately specified.
The Knicks, seeking their first championship since 1973, took a 3-1 series lead with the win. Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby led the team in scoring during the dramatic finish.
Police deployed additional resources to manage the crowds and disperse gatherings. Similar disturbances have occurred after previous games in the series, with multiple arrests reported following earlier watch parties.
A police union representative condemned the violence against officers. "Our sister was just doing her job trying to keep everyone safe," the New York Police Benevolent Association said in a statement regarding a prior incident.
As of June 13, 2026, the NBA Finals continue with Game 5 scheduled in San Antonio. NYPD officials said investigations into the Wednesday arrests were ongoing, with no further updates on additional charges or long-term security plans for potential future celebrations. Most fans celebrated peacefully, authorities noted, while emphasizing enforcement against unlawful behavior. Details on the exact number of injuries or property damage remained limited in initial reports.
