Several blocks around Madison Square Garden will be closed to most people Wednesday afternoon. The city approved a ticketed watch party, though it was unclear whether it would take place.

© Vincent Alban for The New York Times

As New York basks in the attention of a long-awaited N.B.A. finals run, many San Antonians say the Spurs, and the city they represent, are being underestimated.

© Christopher Lee for The New York Times

Fans want to support their team, but they’re not willing to squelch their sense of style.

In bodegas and parks, in bars and pizzerias, the unofficial watch party has taken over New York.

© Todd Heisler/The New York Times