Wild night in New York after NBA Finals Game 4: Wembanyama targeted amid fan violence

New York City experienced another night of unrest following the Knicks' narrow 107-106 victory over the Spurs in Game 4 of the NBA Finals, giving them a commanding 3-1 series lead. What should have been a celebration of sports turned into a scene of chaos, with street clashes between fans and police, and fights among spectators, echoing disturbances after Game 3.

City officials, including Mayor Eric Adams's administration, had tried to curb spontaneous gatherings near Madison Square Garden, citing security reasons and the potential for disorder. Despite these measures, and the absence of former President Donald Trump (though pop star Taylor Swift attended), the situation escalated post-game. The NYPD had announced plans to prevent fans from congregating around the venue without a ticket or specific business.

The post-game unrest saw confrontations between fans and police, resulting in numerous arrests. In a particularly concerning incident, a group of Knicks fans reportedly went to the hotel where the Spurs were staying. Upon the arrival of player Victor Wembanyama, they began shouting insults and throwing objects at him. This occurred amidst a backdrop of rising, unexplained violence in the city, just as preparations for the FIFA World Cup in Mexico, Canada, and the United States were underway.

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On paper, for Barcelona, it will be tough. It will be very tough. In Barcelona, there is no place to hide. After Barcelona, normally, when you bring upgrades you know where you are. After Barcelona, it is normally a reality check for your pace.

Earlier, Wembanyama had publicly condemned the aggression directed at Spurs supporters after Game 3, where videos showed Knicks fans attacking and stealing jerseys from San Antonio supporters. He emphasized that while passion for the game is welcome, it must be accompanied by mutual respect, calling the violence "unacceptable."

Adding to the tension, Knicks owner James Dolan and the Madison Square Garden Co. had criticized the city's restrictions on fan gatherings, accusing the mayor of creating a "police state" around the stadium and hindering fan celebrations. Local restaurant and bar owners near the MSG also expressed frustration over the difficulties the restrictions posed to their businesses.

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We know that Barcelona is very hard on the package. And there will be not so much they (the drivers) can do about it. So I think we need to protect them, maybe a little bit, from getting too much negative out of this.