Police crack down as Lakers celebrations turn into near-riots

June 14, 10:58 PMLA Headlines ExaminerTad Cronn

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Los Angeles Lakers' Kobe Bryant raises the championship trophy after the Lakers beat the Orlando Magic 99-86 in Game 5 to win the NBA basketball finals Sunday in Orlando, Fla. (AP)

Los Angeles police declared an unlawful assembly after some crowds celebrating the Los Angeles Lakers' championship win got out of control at Staples Center, partying in the streets and even walking onto the 110 Freeway.

SWAT and riot units blocked off entrance to local freeways and arrested at least four people after fans' celebrations began turning into near riots, with bottles and fireworks being thrown at police.

Celebratory crowds swelled into the thousands, tearing up landscaping, shouting at passers-by, blocking traffic, trying to turn over cars and starting fires before police began cracking down, issuing tickets, confiscating liquor and separating large groups.

Trevor Ariza was a shooting star of the night with a 12-point second quarter, and MVP Kobe Bryant turned in 30 points, five assists, and four blocks as he led the Lakers to their 15th franchise championship win, and first in seven years, with a 99-86 victory over the Orlando Magic.

The Lakers will be flying back to town Monday, and the city will split the cost of the victory parade with the Lakers.