Donald Trump faced a humiliating reception as New York Knicks fans ruthlessly booed him upon his arrival at Game 3 of the NBA Finals on Monday evening at Madison Square Garden. The president was subjected to a torrent of abuse as the crowd jeered at his motorcade, with many spectators brandishing signs voicing their contempt. At least two people made obscene gestures in his direction, while another gave him a thumbs down.
Fans Express Anger
One fan could be heard shouting, "Put them gas prices down!" before hurling an expletive at Trump. Another yelled, "F--- Trump, but we came here for the Knicks!" The surrounding crowd joined in chanting, "F--- Trump, go Knicks!" According to Jeff Mordock, a Washington Times reporter in Trump's press pool, one sign read, "Nobody wants you here." Another said, "Trump must go," and yet another read, "Impeach. Convict. Remove."
Heightened Security
Security arrangements ahead of Trump's attendance had left basketball supporters and New Yorkers on edge. Secret Service agents screened fans as they entered the arena. Earlier that day, it was confirmed that supporters would be barred from bringing bags into the venue, even those meeting standard requirements. Outside, police directed crowds into cordoned-off queues, which stretched considerably before the opening tip. Footage showed supporters waiting upwards of an hour to gain entry, where they faced heightened security measures from the Secret Service.
Military Presence
Footage from the nearby waterfront revealed large military helicopters stationed on platforms close to the shoreline, with smaller aircraft circling overhead, scanning for potential threats.
Game Context
Trump confirmed he would attend Game 3 of the Finals, which sees the Knicks host the San Antonio Spurs in their first home fixture of the best-of-seven series. Having claimed victory in the opening two games, the Knicks require just two further wins to be crowned NBA champions for the first time since 1973. The Spurs, meanwhile, must secure four victories to claim the franchise's sixth NBA title since 1999, the year both sides last met in the Finals.
