Knicks-Spurs NBA finals rematch draws Bronx fans to watch parties across the Boogie Down
While thousands of fans packed sports bars and watch parties across the city for Game 1, others were priced out of attending the game in person as finals tickets soared into the thousands.
The New York Knicks are back in the NBA Finals for the first time since 1999, setting up a long-awaited rematch against the San Antonio Spurs.
While thousands of fans packed sports bars and watch parties across the city for Game 1, others were priced out of attending the game in person as finals tickets soared into the thousands.
At Barrio BX, fans began gathering hours before tipoff, eager to witness what many called a historic moment for New York basketball. Some traveled from outside the city, including James Lugo, who rode his motorcycle from Long Island to attend the watch party.
“We’ve been waiting for this moment for a long time,” he said.
The excitement comes after a dominant playoff run that saw the Knicks sweep their first two postseason opponents. Fans say the team’s return to the finals has energized the city and brought New Yorkers together in a way they haven’t experienced in decades.
Watch parties have popped up across all five boroughs, including a sold-out event at Madison Square Garden. But at Barrio BX, organizers opened their doors free of charge, giving fans a place to celebrate together as the Knicks chase their first NBA championship since 1973.
