Over 50 people in New York City were arrested overnight outside Madison Square Garden in celebration of their NBA team, the New York Knicks, defeating the San Antonio Spurs to take a 3-1 lead in the league championship series.

"This is an exciting time for the Knicks and for fans across New York City," the New York City Police Department said Thursday, after the Wednesday night win. "The NYPD wants New Yorkers to be able to enjoy these celebrations, but our primary responsibility is to ensure that everyone can do so safely.

"Once again, there were large crowds of people who engaged in incredibly reckless and dangerous behavior last night both during and after the game. This demonstrates exactly why the NYPD has increased our presence in and around Madison Square Garden."

Fifty-six people were reportedly arrested, and among the charges were assault on a police officer, criminal possession of a weapon and criminal mischief, according to abc7ny.com.

The New York Knicks on Wednesday defeated the San Antonio Spurs in Game 4 by a score of 107-106. 

They now lead the best-of-seven NBA Finals 3-1, CNN reported. 

This gives them a shot at the title on Saturday in San Antonio in Game 5. 

The Spurs dominated the first half of the game, right from the opening tip, and went into halftime with a 76-49 lead over the Knicks. The Knicks recovered in the second half, taking a 106-5015 lead with just 30 seconds left in the game.