President Donald Trump’s attendance at Game 3 of the NBA Finals between the New York Knicks and the San Antonio Spurs triggered chaotic scenes in and around Madison Square Garden. His arrival sparked frustration among fans and disrupted their regular game-day routine, as they were stuck in long lines for hours due to extreme security restrictions.
The Knicks lost the game 115-111 in Trump’s presence, making history as he became the first sitting president to attend an NBA Finals game. He was seated along with Knicks and Madison Square Garden owner James Dolan, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum. Trump’s granddaughter, Kai Trump, was also in the suite. There were rumors and intrigue surrounding whether the POTUS would make another appearance in Game 4 on Wednesday.
According to NBA insider Shams Charania of ESPN, Trump is not expected to attend Game 4 of the NBA Finals between the Knicks and Spurs.
Charania reported on Tuesday morning, putting the rumors to rest.
“President Donald Trump is not expected to attend Game 4 of Knicks-Spurs in the NBA Finals on Wednesday night at Madison Square Garden due to scheduling conflicts and obligations, sources tell ESPN. Trump, a lifelong Knicks fan, watched the majority of Game 3 from a suite.”
This news may bring some relief to fans. Knicks supporters voiced their displeasure with Trump’s presence by booing him during the national anthem, with some even suggesting his attendance contributed to the team’s defeat.
However, some may argue it is unfair for Knicks fans to jeer Trump, as it is understandable given that the Knicks are chasing their first championship since 1973. New York fans chose to express their frustration, and things might have been different if the Knicks had won the game, but they did not.
New York has not looked like the same team in Games 1 and 2, struggling to match the physicality and pace of the Spurs, who entered Madison Square Garden with clear intent.
Throughout the series, the Knicks have relied on multiple players to carry them, but those performances have largely disappeared in Trump’s presence. Jalen Brunson, who led the team with 32 points, struggled to connect with his teammates. Karl-Anthony Towns, who had been one of the team’s best players in the previous two games, managed only 11 points and eight rebounds. Mikal Bridges, who scored 20 points in Game 2, was nearly invisible, finishing Game 2 with just three points.
Game 4 will be on Wednesday night, with tip off scheduled for 8:30 p.m. ET.
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