Players from both NBA Finals teams have spoken out against a series of incidents involving San Antonio Spurs supporters allegedly being harassed by New York Knicks fans following Game 3 at Madison Square Garden.
Videos circulating on social media showed several Spurs fans having their jerseys torn off in the streets of New York after the Knicks suffered defeat in front of their home crowd.
Spurs star Victor Wembanyama condemned the behaviour, stressing that rivalry should never cross the line into violence.
“We can’t forget that it’s just a game,” said Wembanyama. “I’m all for passion, but there must be respect for one another. What happened is unacceptable.”
The French sensation played a pivotal role in San Antonio’s Game 3 victory, silencing a packed Madison Square Garden and helping the Spurs gain momentum in the series.
According to reports, 21 people were taken into police custody following the game, with eight arrests linked to incidents surrounding the NBA Finals.
Several Knicks players also distanced themselves from the actions of the supporters involved.
Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns emphasised that basketball should be enjoyed in a respectful environment.
“The game is built on passion and respect,” said Towns. “We want everyone to enjoy basketball at its purest. Leave the physicality to the players on the court.”
Spurs forward Julian Champagnie, a New York native, said he had not personally felt unsafe in the city during the Finals but urged fans to keep their emotions in check.
“We’re here to play basketball,” he said. “It should never get to a point where people are attacked, followed home or beaten up because of the team they support. Everyone should be able to enjoy the game regardless of who they’re cheering for.”
Security around the Finals has been heightened in recent days, with a planned watch party outside Madison Square Garden cancelled due to enhanced measures surrounding the attendance of Donald Trump.
The Knicks will host the Spurs again on Wednesday as they continue their pursuit of a first NBA championship since 1973, currently holding a 2-1 lead in the series.
