A large crowd gathered outside Bryant Park in Manhattan on Monday night for a public watch party during Game 3 of the NBA Finals between the New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs, but the event was overshadowed by multiple disturbances that led to clashes with police and several arrests, as reported by The New York Post.

The unrest began as thousands of fans converged on the Midtown park to watch the game. Many spectators were unable to enter the official viewing area, and tensions rose as crowds swelled around the perimeter of the event.

According to reports from the scene, disorder erupted roughly an hour after tip-off. Large fights broke out near the park as New York City police officers moved in to regain control.

Officers wearing riot gear responded to the disturbances and deployed pepper spray while attempting to disperse sections of the crowd.

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Videos shared online showed groups of fans climbing onto parked vehicles while chanting “We want Wemby!” in reference to Spurs star Victor Wembanyama.

One individual was seen burning a Spurs T-shirt, while another video appeared to show a group chasing a San Antonio fan across the street.

Additional footage captured damage to public property as several individuals repeatedly shook a metal bus sign near Bryant Park. The sign eventually detached from its pole, prompting cheers from some members of the crowd.

Another video from the scene showed the detached sign later being used during a street fight on West 42nd Street. The confrontation unfolded as multiple people exchanged punches and kicks while officers attempted to intervene.

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Police repeatedly ordered people to move back as they worked to separate those involved in the altercations. Several individuals were detained during the incidents, with some being restrained on the ground before being taken into custody.

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Witness videos also showed individuals climbing onto NYPD barricade trucks while shouting profanities. Other clips captured groups surrounding yellow taxicabs and striking vehicle windshields with lightsabers as police attempted to clear the area.

Authorities said at least one person threw a bottle at a police officer during the disturbances. Officers continued efforts throughout the evening to restore order as crowds spread through nearby streets.

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The heightened security environment around the game had already drawn attention earlier in the day. The New York City Police Department and the Secret Service had canceled a separate NBA Finals watch party planned near Madison Square Garden.

Fans attending Game 3 festivities were advised to arrive at least two hours before the game because of increased security measures related to President Donald Trump’s attendance.

The scenes outside Bryant Park contrasted sharply with the excitement surrounding the Knicks’ appearance in the NBA Finals. Throughout the postseason, large crowds have gathered across New York City to support the team during its deep playoff run.

By late Monday night, police had regained control of the area. An NYPD spokesperson confirmed that multiple individuals were arrested in connection with the disturbances.

The investigation into the incidents remains ongoing.

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