Published June 9, 2026
Donald Trump’s courtside appearance at Madison Square Garden was supposed to be a historic moment, as he became the first sitting US president to attend an NBA Finals game.
Instead, his arrival became the talk of the town, prompting boos from some in the crowd and a massive security operation that changed the atmosphere around the storied New York arena on Monday night.
President Trump watched from his executive suite as the New York Knicks hosted the San Antonio Spurs, a series that captivated the city and brought back memories of the Knicks’ glory days.
Many fans jeered as his image was shown on a large screen during the national anthem, underscoring how deeply divided the country is, even in a space usually reserved for celebrations.
Outside, Manhattan streets were shut down. Metal fencing, airport-style screening, and a heavy presence of Secret Service and police kept fans without tickets blocks away.
Supporters lined up early and long lines formed as supporters gathered in public viewing areas around the city.
But inside, the spectacle continued. The event was a star-studded night, with Hollywood actors, musicians, former players and New York regulars filling the front rows.
Between the celebrity sightings, the political atmosphere, and the Spurs’ tense 115-111 victory, this was a night of New York basketball like no other, on and off the court.
