New York Knicks win championship, celebrations turn violent

The New York Knicks captured their first NBA title in 53 years on June 13, 2026, defeating the San Antonio Spurs 94‑90 in Game 5 to clinch the series 4‑1. Fans poured into Times Square, Central Park, Madison Square Garden and Brooklyn, creating a massive street party.

Police said the celebrations quickly devolved into widespread disorder. Rioting, arson, property damage and gunfire were reported across Manhattan and Brooklyn. A 17‑year‑old was wounded by a gunshot near 42nd Street and Broadway, and a 44‑year‑old man later died after being shot near Prospect Park. NYPD deployed riot control units and made multiple arrests. City officials began a large‑scale cleanup and are tightening security for a planned championship parade that could attract hundreds of thousands of spectators.