Police detained at least four unruly fans near Madison Square Garden in midtown Manhattan on the night of June 10 during Game 4 of the NBA Finals between the San Antonio Spurs and New York Knicks [1, 2]. Law enforcement employed stun grenades to disperse crowds gathered outside the arena amid heightened security measures for the event [1, 2]. Authorities had banned planned public screenings near the venue earlier that day over concerns about possible unrest [1, 2].
The Knicks staged a dramatic comeback to win Game 4, taking a 3-1 lead in the best-of-seven series against the Spurs [1, 2]. This victory helped intensify the atmosphere around the arena.
The disturbances came two days after a larger clash during Game 3 on June 8, when police arrested 21 people near Madison Square Garden. Of those detained, eight were formally charged and the rest were fined. Four police officers were also injured amid the unrest [1, 2]. Spurs supporters were targeted particularly during the earlier incident, which Spurs star Victor Wembanyama called "unacceptable" [1].
Police have maintained a strong presence around the arena throughout the Finals to manage crowd control and prevent further incidents [1, 2]. The public screenings ban and use of stun grenades are part of efforts to keep unrest at bay in one of New York City's busiest areas.
The NBA Finals continue, with Game 5 scheduled soon, as the Knicks look to close out the series with a 4-1 series lead.