Thousands of New York Knicks fans celebrated across the city on Saturday night after the team defeated the San Antonio Spurs 94-90 to win its first NBA championship since 1973.

Supporters gathered outside Madison Square Garden and at watch parties across the city before pouring into the streets at the final buzzer. Fans cheered, waved team colours, took photos and chanted as fireworks lit up the night sky.

Many described the victory as a historic moment for the city, ending a 53-year wait for an NBA title. Drivers honked their horns while strangers hugged and celebrated together in scenes of jubilation.

The Knicks secured the championship after rallying from a 16-point deficit in Game 5 of the NBA Finals. The victory capped a dominant postseason run and delivered the franchise's third NBA title.

For many supporters, the triumph was about more than basketball, with fans saying the championship united New Yorkers in celebration after decades of waiting.