Knicks vs Spurs NBA Finals Game 1 sparks citywide watch parties in New York

The NBA Finals opened on June 3, 2026 with the New York Knicks facing the San Antonio Spurs. It marked the Knicks' first appearance in the championship series since 1999. The game began at 8:30 p.m. ET at the Frost Bank Center in San Antonio and was broadcast nationally on ABC, with streaming options such as a free DIRECTV trial and Sling TV.

In New York, thousands of fans gathered for watch parties at venues including Madison Square Garden, the Magic Hour rooftop, Central Park’s SummerStage and a public viewing at the New York Post headquarters. The Empire State Building and other Manhattan towers were illuminated in the team's blue and orange colors, creating a citywide celebration as the Knicks secured a win in Game 1.

The event highlighted the heightened enthusiasm for the Knicks’ return to the finals and the broad fan engagement across the city.