The Knicks’ championship win in Game 5 against the San Antonio Spurs sent thousands of fans into Manhattan, ending the team’s title drought that dated back to 1973.
Police said the celebration grew disorderly around Times Square, Madison Square Garden, and the Port Authority Bus Terminal, where basketball fans mixed with soccer supporters leaving a World Cup match between Brazil and Morocco.
A convoy of about 15 yellow school buses had been used to transport international soccer fans from the match. Several became stranded as crowds surrounded them, climbed on top, and entered some of the vehicles. One bus was later set on fire.
The scene included fireworks, smoke grenades, people scaling scaffolding, and even a bicycle being lifted onto the roof of a bus. A witness described the atmosphere as far beyond a typical New Year’s Eve crowd.
Police said a 17-year-old was shot in the foot in Times Square, and three persons of interest were taken into custody. Officers in riot gear and mounted units later moved through Midtown to clear the area and restore order.