New York’s celebrations after the Knicks ended a 53-year NBA championship drought with a 94-90 victory over the San Antonio Spurs were overshadowed by widespread disorder across Manhattan.
A 17-year-old boy was shot in the foot near Times Square, five school buses used to transport World Cup fans were destroyed or set ablaze, and police vehicles were vandalised as large crowds turned increasingly unruly. Authorities reported four slashings or stabbings, numerous fights, fireworks incidents and damage to private property, while 63 people were arrested and 10 police officers injured.
Despite the violence, thousands of fans had earlier filled the streets in a festive atmosphere following the Knicks’ first NBA title since 1973, with official championship celebrations set to continue later this week.
🚨 BREAKING: Rioters have begun setting the school buses ON FIRE in Times Square during the Knicks riots
Police do not have NEARLY ENOUGH SUPPORT
Mamdani and Hochul have ABSOLUTELY FAILED NYPD and law abiding New Yorkers pic.twitter.com/yMtwfvhvFa
— Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) June 14, 2026
