Surrounded by Knicks fever, Spurs fans in New York need to celebrate, too

New York City is pulsing with more energy than usual in the build-up to the Knicks facing the Spurs in a crucial game five of the NBA Finals tonight.

But in a city fiery with Knicks passion and a championship on the line, it can be tough for San Antonio fans living in the same city.

"Spurs fans that live in New York City are just as much part of the city as anyone else," said Dave Rizo, owner of Yellow Rose, a San Antonio , Texas-themed restaurant in Manhattan.

If the New York Knicks win tonight's game in the best-of-seven series, they will clinch the National Basketball Association championship for the first time in over 50 years - a huge moment for the team and its fans.

Yellow Rose is one of a few local establishments recognizing New Yorkers with Texas roots and Spurs passion - and it tries to show up for them.

A cardboard cutout of Spurs star Victor Wembanyama 's face, a Spurs flag and painted banner, and a signed card from Spurs owner Peter Holt greet customers. But while it has livestreamed the Finals for customers, it's a restaurant - not a sports bar - and the vibe is pretty low-key. Rizo says he's keeping it that way.

"I don't want to unintentionally add more fuel to any of the fire that's going on," the San Antonio native told the BBC. "I want this to be a safe space for people that are Spurs fans."

There have been a few instances of violence in New York City against Spurs fans, including one assault that landed a fan in the hospital and another in which a fast food worker wearing a Spurs jersey was attacked, according to local reports.