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On Monday night, as the Knicks hosted the San Antonio Spurs for game three of the NBA Finals, loud boos erupted inside Madison Square Garden when U.S. President Donald Trump’s image appeared on the screens during the national anthem.
Trump, who grew up in New York and has supported the Knicks for years, watched the game from an executive suite. His visit led to one of the largest security operations the arena has seen, including airport-style screening, a ban on bags, and a 10-foot fence around parts of the venue.
Authorities kept fans without tickets several blocks away from Madison Square Garden. Watch parties that had attracted big crowds during earlier playoff games were not allowed outside the venue. Officials also asked ticket holders to arrive at least two hours before the match started.
"The message is simple: celebrate the Knicks, but avoid the MSG area tonight if you do not have tickets for the game," said NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch at a news conference earlier in the day.
Secret Service agents, some carrying heavy weapons, worked with hundreds of NYPD officers as crowds gathered on nearby streets and at public viewing spots around the city. Counter-drone technology was also used to protect the president, who has reportedly faced three assassination attempts in under two years.
The boos faded when the U.S. flag appeared on the screen after Trump, and fans cheered when Knicks players were shown. Spurs players were also booed during introductions.
Trump is the first sitting president to attend an NBA Finals game. He last visited Madison Square Garden in November 2024 for an Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) event after his election win, and he has also held a campaign rally there.
Outside, as Trump's convoy drove through New York, some protesters held signs asking him to leave. At least two people made gestures at the vehicles. Democratic Senator Chuck Schumer criticized the visit on X, saying Trump was making the event about himself during what he called one of the city’s best times in decades.
Not everyone felt the same way. Knicks fan Anthony Pulley, 43, said he did not like the watch party disruptions, but he recognized that Trump’s visit was significant.
New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani also attended, telling reporters he paid almost $1,000 for his seat. Most New Yorkers could not afford tickets, but the arena was full and celebrities sat courtside.
Police said there were no wider security concerns after a stabbing late Sunday at Penn Station, which is below the arena. Six people were hurt. U.S. media said the male suspect was emotionally disturbed and not linked to terrorism.
On the court, the Spurs beat the Knicks 115-111, making the series 2-1 in the best-of-seven finals. The Knicks, hoping for their first title since 1973, play again on Wednesday in game four.
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