President Donald Trump attended Game 3 of the NBA Finals between the New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs at Madison Square Garden. The game took place on Monday night, and the arena was sold out. Trump’s presence drew a significant response from the audience.
During the national anthem, Trump’s appearance on the big screen at MSG prompted a mixed reaction. While some attendees cheered as he saluted from his suite, the sound of boos was more prominent. The camera soon shifted its focus to NYPD officers holding flags on the court.
Trump attended the game with his granddaughter, Kai Trump, who stood beside him with her hand over her heart. Knicks owner James Dolan was also present in the suite.
The reception Trump received in New York contrasted with a previous sports event that year, the College Football National Championship. At Hard Rock Stadium, college football fans enthusiastically cheered when Trump appeared on the Jumbotron during the national anthem. Accompanied by his grandchildren, Trump’s presence was met with excitement from the crowd.
Trump’s visit to New York required heightened security measures. Security fences were erected around MSG, and Secret Service personnel, along with other law enforcement officials, ensured strict security protocols were followed. This resulted in longer wait times and lines for those entering the arena.
NYPD announced that vehicle and pedestrian traffic were closed from West 30th Street to West 35th Street between Sixth Avenue and Eighth Avenue starting at 4 p.m. Scheduled watch parties in the area were canceled due to security concerns related to Trump’s visit. Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch explained that this decision was made in coordination with the Secret Service.
However, MSG claimed that the permit for watch parties was denied by local city officials rather than due to Trump’s presence.
Since starting his second term, Trump has attended several major sporting events, including the Super Bowl in New Orleans, the Daytona 500, and the Ryder Cup.
