Warriors Fans Celebrate NBA Title by Tossing Tortillas
It’s been a long time since Golden State Warriors fans saw their team hoist the Larry O’Brien Trophy – so long, in fact, that the last time they did it, it wasn’t even called the Larry O’Brien Trophy. So you can understand why the city of Oakland was anticipating rambunctious celebrations following the Dubs’ NBA Finals win last night.
Before Game 6, the Oakland Police Department deployed officers in several popular locations throughout the city to prepare themselves for any outbreaks of over-enthusiasm (or, you know, property destruction). The hope: Avoid anything close to what happened in wake of the Giants’ World Series win last year, when violent celebrations led to shootings, a stabbing and 40 arrests.
So, how did one of the rowdiest fanbases in the NBA celebrate their team’s first championship in 40 years? Well, one dude decided to climb a street sign then dive like Matthew Dellavedova trying to take out Draymond Green’s knees. Let’s go Dubs!
This just happened at Telegraph and 19th in #Oakland. He’s okay folks! #NBAFinals @Warriors pic.twitter.com/P6s2xHnoZK
— Todd Johnson (@todd__johnson) June 17, 2015
Across the Bay in San Francisco, rowdy crowds responded to police orders to disperse by throwing tortillas, which is incredibly dangerous given how sharp the corners of those chips can be.
Crowd is throwing tortillas #Warriors #Mission pic.twitter.com/dljTv7UB8t
— Vivian Ho (@VivianHo) June 17, 2015
Unfortunately, there was also some unrest. According to the San Francisco Business Times, one fan was arrested for vandalism after they scribbled “Warriors” on the street, and some fights broke out for reasons entirely unknown.
Other than that, though, the celebrations in Oakland were reportedly under control. Once the crowds dispersed at 1 a.m., only two people had been arrested and there were no reports of serious violence. By all accounts, it was one of the least destructive celebrations in recent memory.
Way to go, Oakland!