Trump’s presence at Knicks-Spurs Game 3 triggers increased security
Massive security preparations are underway for Game 3 of the NBA Finals in New York due to the anticipated presence of Donald Trump. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries criticized Trump’s visit. The New York Police Department and Secret Service set up a “frozen zone” around Madison Square Garden, prompting fan advisories and a no-baggage policy. Former FBI agent James Gagliano discusses heightened security measures in the wake of a recent stabbing at Penn Station.
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Madison Square Garden isn’t kidding about President Donald Trump’s presence at Game 3.
Security has been increased, and that’s bothering some players as the arena prepares to welcome its highest-profile guest yet.
Even NBA Commissioner Adam Silver expressed appreciation for Trump’s presence, acknowledging that it’s a real ratings boost.
U.S. President Donald Trump signs an executive order in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, DC, Wednesday, June 3, 2026. (Shawn Thew/EPA/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Players such as Spurs guard De’Aaron Fox and Knicks forward OG Anunoby don’t seem as excited.
SECRET SERVICE, TSA AND NYPD TURN MADISON SQUARE GARDEN INTO FORTRESS FOR TRUMP’S NBA FINALS VISIT
Fox said before Game 3 in New York that the tight security at MSG had become a nuisance.
“I think having the president here just inconveniences everyone,” Fox said Monday. “We obviously have more security. We have to send things out earlier. I think our buses are coming a little earlier.”
“We’re screened like it’s TSA,” Fox added. “It’s a little embarrassing for the people who were able to play, but it is what it is.”
Fans attending Game 3 will also be subject to additional security screenings due to Trump’s appearance.
Meanwhile, as Trump prepares to celebrate his 80th birthday later this week, Anunoby was asked about the president’s expected Game 3 appearance.
“He’ll just be there watching the game. We’ll go out there as usual, play our game, try to win the game,” Anunoby said matter-of-factly.
Given how polarizing Trump remains, attention quickly turned to NBA players who might publicly support his presence. Others argued that the president’s presence should be considered an honor.
Spurs phenom Victor Wembanyama also became a talking point after standing idly by during the national anthem before the first game. Trump, however, had no criticism when asked about the moment.
San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama and guard De’aaron Fox react after a foul during the second half of Game 2 of the NBA Finals against the New York Knicks in San Antonio on June 5, 2026. (Eric Gay/AP Photo)
“Wemby is a great player,” Trump said. “I say, ‘How do you guard this guy?'”
Although Hart has not publicly commented on Trump’s presence, Knicks guard Josh Hart is among the most outspoken players participating in the Finals. Hart posted a tweet about Trump in November 2020 that read, “YES!!!! GET TRUMP’S DUMBA** OUT OF THE WHITE HOUSE!!!!!!! »
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The Knicks enter Game 3 with a 2-0 series lead, and history is firmly on their side: Teams that take a 2-0 lead in the NBA Finals win the championship almost 87% of the time.
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