Surprising video shows a New York Knicks fan seeming to try and light a San Antonio Spurs fan on fire
A surprising video on social media showed a New York Knicks fan seemingly trying to set a fire to a San Antonio Spurs supporter during some tense moments around the NBA Finals.
There have been a few rough showdowns between fans lately as New York hosted its first home NBA Finals game since 1999. The Knicks went into Game 3 leading 2-0, but their three-game winning streak ended with a close 115-111 loss to the Spurs. That win made it 2-1 before Game 4 in New York on Wednesday.
But the rivalry hasn’t just been on the court. There have been reports of heated arguments at New York games, with Spurs fans feeling unwelcome in the city. One video on social media shows a Spurs fan surrounded by Knicks fans on the street, with many people filming. While some fans are having fun with the rivalry, others can be seen trying to pull off the Spurs jersey, and one even tries to light it on fire with a lighter.
A planned Game 3 watch party was moved from Madison Square Garden because of extra security for President Donald Trump’s visit. Fans were sent to nearby Bryant Park instead. After the Knicks’ loss, there were some ugly moments, including the police using pepper spray to stop fights.
Other videos showed a Spurs fan with a bloody face, and fans running as things were thrown on the street. Over 20 people were arrested because of fan fights.
After Game 3, players from both teams spoke out against the attacks on Spurs fans. Spurs star Victor Wembanyama said, “This is just a game. I’m all for passion, but with respect. What happened is not okay.”
Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns agreed, saying, “The game is about respect and passion. We want everyone to respect each other and enjoy basketball. The Finals are special—leave the fighting to the players on the court.”