New York City police say a watch party for the New York Knicks at Bryant Park after the team’s NBA finals game against the San Antonio Spurs turned chaotic on Monday. Reports say about 7,000 people had gathered for a city-hosted viewing event a few blocks from Madison Square Garden. While the party was largely calm at first, some attendees blocked traffic and refused to disperse after the loss. Police and video described more disruptive actions including fans scaling light poles, throwing objects—including glass items—punching or brawling in the street, and ripping signs from the roadway. Police said the area near Madison Square Garden was largely closed to the public because of President Donald Trump’s attendance at the game, and that the watch party at Bryant Park became the main public gathering point.
According to police, a total of 21 people were taken into custody: eight arrests and 13 criminal court summons. Police said two of the arrests involved assaulting a police officer, and that five officers were injured. Authorities did not immediately provide additional details on the individuals involved.
