New York Knicks ignite citywide frenzy in first NBA Finals appearance in 27 years

The New York Knicks advanced to the NBA Finals for the first time in 27 years, taking a 1‑0 lead over the San Antonio Spurs after a 105‑95 Game 1 victory in San Antonio. Tickets for the opening game started around $750 on the secondary market and the cheapest seat in New York was listed for $7,500.

The prospect of a championship has sparked a citywide celebration. Thousands gathered at Madison Square Garden to watch on big screens, while crowds filled the streets, Central Park and subway stations painted in Knicks colors. Mayor Zohran Mamdani signed an order temporarily extending children’s bedtime hours, and the MTA dyed several stations in orange and blue. Fans traveled from New York to San Antonio, comprising about 20 % of the arena crowd.

Celebrity supporters such as Spike Lee, Timothée Chalamet and Ben Stiller attended Game 1. Lee, a longtime Knicks super‑fan, joked on CBS Mornings that he would rather see the Knicks win a title than win another Oscar. Player Jalen Brunson overcame earlier injuries to hit clutch shots that secured the win.