Thousands of supporters found themselves stuck inside a metro station, with people shouting to escape amid 'absolute chaos' as crowds gathered to celebrate the New York Knicks' NBA championship victory.
Chaos at Fulton Street Station
New York is staging a ticker-tape parade for the team that ended a 53-year championship drought. More than 1,000 people were trapped inside Fulton Street station, near the World Trade Center and Wall Street, according to reports. Eyewitnesses described the scene as 'absolute chaos,' with fans crammed into the concourse and unable to move freely. Supporters were heard yelling 'we can't get out' as panic set in.
Gridlock Across the City
Those who reached the streets encountered further crowds, causing a complete standstill. People lined the parade route, with estimates suggesting attendance could reach millions along the roughly one-mile stretch from Battery Park. The New York Police Department mounted what it called the largest planned operation in its history, deploying more than 10,000 officers. This followed Saturday night's unrest after the Knicks' 94-90 win over the San Antonio Spurs in Game 5 of the NBA Finals, securing a 4-1 series victory. Gunfire erupted and fans torched a school bus while damaging vehicles in Times Square.
Security Measures in Place
Security arrangements covered roads, underground stations, and the skies, with barricades, screening points, helicopters, bomb-sniffing dogs, and anti-drone systems. Some fans slept overnight to secure the best vantage points. The NYPD confirmed all designated viewing areas were at full capacity, warning that those who left their assigned zones would be refused re-entry. Officials stated no trains would stop south of Canal Street in Manhattan.
Historic Parade Route
The procession wound through Broadway's Canyon of Heroes, the traditional path for ticker-tape celebrations. While the Knicks won NBA titles in 1970 and 1973, neither was celebrated with a Canyon of Heroes parade, making this the team's first such event. 'From a playoff run that left New Yorkers breathless to a tip-in that will be talked about for decades, the Knicks have earned a hero's welcome,' said Mayor Zohran Mamdani. 'We have dreamed of this moment for generations. This Thursday, our city will rise to the occasion.'
Celebrities and Legends Attend
Knicks icons Walt 'Clyde' Frazier and Patrick Ewing were anticipated to participate. Vocalist Alicia Keys, known for her collaboration with Jay-Z on 'Empire State of Mind,' was confirmed to perform. 'How could I not?' Keys remarked on social media, pictured with Knicks forward OG Anunoby.
