Madison Square Garden will not host watch parties outside its premises for Game 3 of the NBA Finals on Monday (June 8) as President Donald Trump is expected to attend. The New York Knicks, who are hosting the San Antonio Spurs, have announced enhanced security measures, including a hard closure around the venue. According to Yahoo Sports, this means no vehicle access or pedestrian traffic will be allowed in the secured area.
The Knicks have implemented “TSA-style” screening procedures and a strict no-bag policy, urging fans to arrive at least two hours before the 8:40 p.m. ET tipoff. The Associated Press reports that these measures are due to President Trump’s attendance, marking him as the first sitting president to attend an NBA Finals game. His presence brings federal security protocols, making the area around MSG more restricted than usual.
The decision follows chaotic scenes during the first two games of the Finals, with Game 1 celebrations resulting in arrests and ambulance damage, and Game 2 seeing 26 arrests and an NYPD officer injured. The Knicks have canceled all outdoor events, with only ticket holders allowed access to the area around MSG. The Reuters reports that Trump’s visit includes a motorcade and Secret Service presence, adding to the security measures.
President Trump, a longtime Knicks fan, confirmed his attendance after receiving an invitation from team owner James Dolan. This historic event comes as the Knicks are two wins away from their first NBA title since 1973 and as MSG hosts its first Finals game since 1999.
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