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New York’s celebration of the Knicks’ first NBA championship in more than 50 years was marred by gunfire in Times Square early Sunday morning that left a teenager hospitalized, according to New York police.
An NYPD spokesperson told PK Press Club Digital that officers responded to a shooting around 2:01 a.m. near 42nd Street and Broadway. A 17-year-old man was shot in the left foot and taken to Bellevue Hospital in stable condition. Police said three people of interest were arrested and a firearm was found at the scene.
The shooting came hours after thousands of Knicks fans filled the streets of Manhattan to celebrate the franchise’s first NBA title since 1973.
The Knicks beat the San Antonio Spurs 94-90 in Game 5 of the NBA Finals on Saturday in Texas, winning the franchise’s first championship since 1973 and sparking scenes of jubilation across the city.
The Knicks miraculously overcame a 29-point deficit to take a 3-1 lead in the NBA Finals against the Spurs.
Police officers prepare to disperse the crowd after the New York Knicks’ victory against the San Antonio Spurs in Game 5 of the NBA Finals at Bryant Park in New York, United States, June 13, 2026. (Reuters/Christian Monterrosa)
In the aftermath of this historic victory, some individuals were seen causing damage in videos circulating on social media.
One video appeared to show two people jumping on the roof of an NYPD vehicle and smashing its windshield.
Another appeared to show individuals getting on and off school buses near Times Square.
A third video appears to show NYPD officers tackling and arresting a Knicks fan as authorities tried to disperse the crowd.
Although the deciding game took place thousands of miles away, police maintained a heavy presence around Madison Square Garden, the Knicks’ home arena.
Before the game, New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani urged fans to celebrate responsibly if the Knicks won the franchise’s first NBA title in more than five decades.
“As we celebrate, be responsible, take care of each other, stay safe, be smart, and make this a night that reflects the best of our city,” Mamdani wrote on social media. “Let’s go, Knicks.”
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New York Knicks fans board buses as they celebrate after winning the NBA Finals in Times Square on June 14, 2026, in New York. (Adam Gray/Getty Images)
Despite these calls, some celebrations turned chaotic after the final whistle.
Officers in riot gear and on horseback worked to manage the large crowds that poured into the streets after the victory.
Other videos posted online appear to show police making arrests amid the celebrations.
The NYPD told PK Press Club Digital it plans to provide an update on the number of arrests later Sunday.
“We will report the total numbers later today,” a New York Police Department spokesperson said.
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A fan celebrates the New York Knicks’ victory against the San Antonio Spurs in Game 5 of the NBA Finals, on a street near Madison Square Garden, in New York, United States, June 14, 2026. (Reuters/Christian Monterrosa)
Emergency officials warned residents and visitors to expect road closures and traffic delays in the area around Madison Square Garden.
Authorities also urged anyone celebrating the holiday to follow NYPD instructions.
New York Knicks fans board buses as they celebrate after winning the NBA Finals in Times Square on June 14, 2026, in New York. (Adam Gray/Getty Images)
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