On the evening of June 8 local time, US President Donald Trump attended the third game of the 2026 NBA Finals between the New York Knicks and the San Antonio Spurs at Madison Square Garden in New York. It was the first time a sitting president had attended an NBA Finals game in New York since 1999.
As he appeared on the big screen during the national anthem, Trump was met with loud boos from the audience. White House reporters at the scene described the booing as "intense." The Athletic reported that Trump received more boos than the visiting San Antonio Spurs.
Unprecedented security measures
Security was tightened to the maximum for the event. The US Secret Service deployed anti-drone technology, while police erected three-meter-high barriers around the arena. Fans without tickets were prohibited from approaching within several blocks.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said fans were asked to arrive at least two hours early for security checks resembling airport screening. Bags were not allowed inside. "There are some inconveniences for fans, but looking around the arena, it is still packed," Silver said.
President Trump sat in a bulletproof glass box located at center court, invited by Knicks owner James Dolan. Public viewing events outside the arena were also banned, unlike earlier playoff games.
Mixed reactions from fans and politicians
Many New Yorkers and Democratic lawmakers criticized Trump for the inconvenience caused to fans. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer wrote on X: "In one of the greatest moments NYC has had in decades, he made it all about himself. Trump should leave us alone! He is not welcome here."
However, some fans appreciated the president's presence. Anthony Pulley, a 43-year-old Knicks fan, told AFP: "I think it's terrible. It really ruined the public viewings. But it's quite interesting that he wanted to show up and participate."
Ticket prices were high, but the arena was full. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani also attended, saying he paid nearly $1,000 for a standing ticket out of his own pocket.
The game ended with a 115-111 victory for the San Antonio Spurs, cutting the series deficit to 2-1.
