New York Knicks supporters who bought tickets for Game 5 of the NBA Finals faced a sudden threat when Ticketmaster posted a notice restricting entry to fans within a 150‑mile radius of Frost Bank Center, citing billing‑address residency. The warning triggered outrage among fans who had already paid and booked travel.

Despite the claim, Madison Square Sports Corp. later announced that no tickets would be revoked and that all holders could enter the arena. Ticketmaster issued a follow‑up statement confirming that “no tickets purchased on Ticketmaster for this game have or will be canceled today for fans everywhere at the arena.”

Spurs officials defended the 150‑mile rule as standard postseason practice aimed at prioritizing local supporters from San Antonio, Austin and nearby communities. They noted the restriction only applies at purchase, so any valid, authenticated ticket grants entry, and secondary‑market sales remain unaffected for fans across the nation and the league will continue to support local fans.

New York officials slammed the policy, with Attorney General Letitia James demanding the Spurs reverse the restriction and Governor Kathy Hochul calling it a foul. The controversy underscores the tension between regional ticket limits and the national fan base, highlighting how playoff logistics can clash with the sport’s growing global reach for fans everywhere and the league will remain vigilant.