NYPD Reports 7 Shootings Related To Knicks Celebrations After Championship Victory

by Alexander BumbJune 16, 2026, 4:19 pm >

The New York Knicks ended a 53-year championship drought last Friday night, defeating the San Antonio Spurs in five games to capture their first NBA title since 1973.

The victory sparked massive celebrations throughout New York City, as fans flooded the city streets to celebrate one of the most significant moments in NBA and franchise history. However, the celebrations were at times chaotic, with several incidents prompting police intervention across parts of the city.

Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch reported there had been seven shootings related to the celebrations.

On the court, the Knicks relied on the leadership of Jalen Brunson, who won Finals MVP and whose postseason performance cemented his status as the greatest Knick of all time. Brunson delivered another strong performance in the clinching victory, helping the Knicks withstand a late Spurs rally.

It wasn’t just Brunson—starters Karl-Anthony Towns, Mikal Bridges and Josh Hart played a huge role in Game 5. The Knicks’ defensive effort was tremendous throughout the Finals, holding the Spurs to limited points and securing the championship on the road.

According to local authorities, several incidents of vandalism were reported as crowds grew larger throughout the night. Police responded to reports of damaged property, overturned barricades and isolated confrontations between fans. Multiple arrests were reportedly made as officers attempted to maintain control of the celebrations.

Despite the incidents, videos across social media showed large crowds chanting, waving Knicks flags and celebrating into the early morning hours. For many longtime Knicks supporters, the championship represented a moment decades in the making. The Knicks had not appeared in the NBA Finals since 1999, enduring 30 years of rebuilding before reaching the promised land.

Now, after more than five decades of waiting, the Knicks are NBA champions once again.