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Trump becomes first sitting president to attend NBA Finals
Donald Trump faced audible boos at Madison Square Garden on Monday night during Game 3 of the NBA Finals, marking the first time a sitting U.S. president attended the championship series. The New York Knicks fell 111-115 to the San Antonio Spurs, narrowing their series lead to 2-1.
Security measures spark fan frustration
Thousands of spectators endured hours-long delays outside the arena due to heightened security protocols for the president's visit. Metal barriers and airport-style screening created queues stretching over two blocks, disrupting foot traffic and leaving nearby bars nearly empty.
A New Yorker told the BBC the security presence was "killing the vibe of the Knicks," while another fan called the disruptions "very annoying." Streets around the venue were closed to vehicles and pedestrians, with thousands of NYPD and Secret Service officers deployed.
Mixed reactions from fans
Boos erupted when Trump appeared on arena screens during the national anthem, though he later claimed the crowd was "mostly cheers." The president attended with his granddaughter Kai, Knicks owner James Dolan, and administration officials including Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum.
"It was loud, and it was very enthusiastic."
Donald Trump, speaking to reporters after the game
Not all fans opposed his presence. Anthony Pulley, 43, told AFP the security disruptions were frustrating but appreciated Trump's attendance. "It's pretty cool he wants to show up and be a part of it," he said.
Knicks fever grips New York despite setbacks
The team's first Finals appearance since 1999 drew massive crowds, with fans in orange and blue filling Bryant Park for a community watch party after a planned gathering near Madison Square Garden was canceled. Celebrations spilled into streets, with fans climbing scaffolding and cheering every Knicks score.
Ticket prices soared, with resale seats exceeding $100,000. Trump dismissed the costs, saying, "It's sort of semi-free to watch it on television." Mayor Zohran Mamdani revealed he paid nearly $1,000 for his ticket.
Citywide celebrations and chaos
Landmarks like the Empire State Building and One World Trade Center were lit in Knicks colors. Previous game nights saw arrests as fans climbed lampposts and blocked traffic, though Monday's security measures largely contained the crowds.
