NYPD uses pepper spray as chaos erupts at Knicks watch party in Bryant Park

A Knicks watch party in Bryant Park on June 9 turned chaotic as fights broke out and NYPD deployed pepper spray to disperse the crowd. This incident followed a series of disturbances during the postseason, including 26 arrests and an injured officer during Game 2 watch parties. Prior to the Game 3 gathering, fans were redirected from Madison Square Garden due to security measures related to President Trump's attendance. Although the atmosphere inside Bryant Park was initially positive, the situation escalated on surrounding streets, resulting in seven arrests. Following the Game 3 chaos, the Knicks lost to the Spurs 115-111, marking their first playoff loss of the 2026 postseason. The Knicks still lead the series 2-1 heading into the next game.

• 3:11 PMYahoo Sports — NYPD Deploys Pepper Spray as Knicks Watch Party Turns Into Brawl at Bryant Park