NYC Bodegas to Buildings: Knicks Finals Fever

New York City transformed into a massive celebration for the NBA Finals, especially for Game 5 on Saturday, June 13, 2026. Fans devised imaginative ways to catch the Knicks vs. Spurs game, with watch parties erupting across the metropolis.

Utilizing 130 LinkNYC kiosks, the city provided public viewing opportunities, streaming the game directly onto their screens. This initiative marked a significant moment, as it was the first time live sports were broadcast on these public screens. Beyond the kiosks, private gatherings spilled onto streets, with projections appearing on bodegas and buildings.

Mayor Zohran Mamdani highlighted the city's unified spirit, stating, "The Knicks belong to all New Yorkers." The LinkNYC kiosks, originally installed to replace pay phones and offer free WiFi, charging, and calls, have now served millions. These modern fixtures, equipped with 55-inch displays, previously offered critical information like cooling center locations during heatwaves and now displayed the crucial Knicks game.

This widespread fan engagement comes as the Knicks lead the series 3-1, with the potential to clinch their first championship in over 50 years. The Game 5 broadcast on the LinkNYC kiosks underscored their evolution from communication tools to community connectors, uniting New Yorkers during this historic playoff run.