Donald Trump will attend NBA Finals Game 3 between New York Knicks and Spurs
President Donald Trump has accepted an invitation from owner James Dolan to attend Game 3 of the NBA Finals between the New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs next week.
The sitting US President confirmed on Thursday that he will travel to Madison Square Garden for the highly anticipated Monday night clash.
He also suggested the possibility of remaining in Manhattan for Game 4 of the best-of-seven series.
“The answer is yes, [Dolan] has invited me and I’m going,” Trump said.
“It could be Monday, maybe I’ll do both.”
Knicks chase historic championship
The New York franchise currently holds a 1-0 series advantage after securing a 14-point comeback victory in Wednesday’s opening match-up.
That triumph marked a 12th consecutive play-off win for a side making their first Finals appearance since 1999.
Trump praised the Eastern Conference champions, acknowledging Dolan’s significant efforts in assembling a title-contending roster.
He also expressed admiration for San Antonio’s standout French centre Victor Wembanyama, who featured prominently in the series opener.
“He’s going to be a great player. He’s already a great player. I said, ‘How do you guard this guy?’ He’s 7-foot-5 and has a great shot,” the President remarked.
Security heightened for presidential visit
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver publicly welcomed the impending visit, noting the unparalleled enthusiasm currently gripping New York City.
The upcoming appearance will be the first by a sitting president at a Finals game during Silver’s tenure, which began a decade ago.
Speaking at a community event in Texas, the commissioner recalled the 78-year-old’s long-standing fandom and past attendance at league drafts.
“President Trump is very much a New Yorker,” Silver stated.
“I’m thrilled another New Yorker wants to participate in the enthusiasm and the joy around this Knicks team.”
The league will implement additional layers of security at the iconic arena to accommodate the high-profile guest.
Silver expects supporters to be understanding of the logistical changes, believing the visit only amplifies the magnitude of the occasion.
“Sports, in particular, is something where we can emphasize what we have in common, not what pulls us apart,” Silver added.