Spurs and Knicks players publicly condemned the violence surrounding the recent game, with Victor Wembanyama stressing that passion is fine but violence is unacceptable and Karl-Anthony Towns calling for respect and safety at arenas.

Videos circulated of Spurs fans having jerseys ripped off on the streets of New York after the Knicks’ win in Game 3 at Madison Square Garden.

New York native Spurs forward Julian Champagnie said he didn’t feel unsafe walking through Manhattan but urged fans to keep celebrations focused on the game and avoid excessive behavior.

In the security zone around MSG, businesses will operate under strict capacity limits despite the heightened security measures.

The plan includes crowd-control measures and a frozen security zone around the arena, similar to actions taken when the president attended Game 3.

MSG argues the restrictions could dampen celebrations and hurt local small businesses that depend on Garden traffic.

With Spurs trailing 2-1 in the series and Game 4 approaching, organizers plan to maintain heightened security after the disturbances the night before.

Entry to the secure zone requires authorization beginning at 4 p.m. and all entrants must pass through screenings.

The dispute highlights broader tensions between public safety measures and fan celebrations at high-profile sports events.

About 21 people were arrested at a Bryant Park watch party amid chaos following the game, with injuries and property damage reported.

The new security plan follows the Bryant Park incident, aiming to prevent further violence at watch parties.

Mayor Zohran Mamdani defended the security measures and watch-party celebrations as a historic, joyful city moment, insisting violence will not be tolerated.