The New York Knicks have issued a warning to fans attending Monday night's Game 3 of the NBA finals, urging them to arrive at least two hours early due to enhanced security measures prompted by President Donald Trump's planned attendance.
Enhanced Security at Madison Square Garden
The Knicks announced on Saturday that a strict no-bag policy will be enforced, and fans will undergo airport-style screening procedures when entering Madison Square Garden for the game, which is scheduled to tip off at 8:40 p.m. local time.
Trump confirmed last week that he will attend the game between the Knicks and the San Antonio Spurs, marking the first NBA finals game in New York City since 1999. The president has attended several major sporting events during his second term, including the 2025 Super Bowl, Daytona 500, and Ryder Cup.
Political Figures in Attendance
Trump is not expected to be the only prominent political figure at the Garden. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has also stated his intention to attend Monday's game, though he indicated there is little chance of crossing paths with Trump.
"I will be in a very different section," Mamdani said last week. The mayor's office confirmed that Mamdani will purchase his own ticket. Meanwhile, Trump will attend as a guest of Knicks owner Jim Dolan, setting the stage for a finals scene featuring two of New York's most prominent political figures under one roof.
Knicks' Historic Run
The game takes place amid a feverish atmosphere in New York as the Knicks aim to win their first NBA title since 1973. They currently lead the Spurs 2-0 in the best-of-seven series and are on a 13-game winning streak.
