One would think that the citizens who reside in an NBA championship-winning city would be in a festive and peaceful mood. But for the second year in a row, dozens of fans celebrated the Lakers victory over the Celtics in the NBA Finals with violence.
Moments after the final buzzer sounded, fans took to the streets near the Staples Centers and a few jumped on vehicles, disrupted traffic, broke car windows, started fires and fought each other. One man was even beaten unconscious.
Police officers quickly moved into the area and attempted to make the crowd disperse, but disgruntled fans threw bottles at police. Nearly 15 people were arrested and dozens of other citations were issued before the crowd was brought under control shortly before.midnight.
On the court, Kobe Bryant and the Lakers overcame sluggish play in the first three quarters to ease by the Celtics 83-79. The Celtics maintained a lead for the majority of the game before going cold in the fourth quarter. By having an edge in offensive rebounding and free throw attempts, the Lakers were able to win back-to-back championships. –a.r.
