Former President Donald Trump is set to attend Game 3 of the NBA Finals between the New York Knicks and the San Antonio Spurs at Madison Square Garden on Monday night. He will be accompanied by White House aides, including communications director Steven Cheung and Office of Presidential Personnel director Dan Scavino. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who purchased a ticket for the game, will not meet with Trump during his visit. The Knicks' owner, James Dolan, has a history of supporting Trump, and speculation suggests Trump may sit in the owner's box.
Due to Trump's attendance, the Knicks have canceled an outdoor viewing party planned outside the arena, which had drawn large crowds for previous games. Instead, a viewing party will be held at Bryant Park. The New York Police Department has implemented extensive security measures, closing off 15 blocks around Madison Square Garden starting at 4 p.m. on game day.
White House spokeswoman Olivia Wales stated that the administration appreciates the efforts of the Secret Service and NYPD to ensure safety at the event. Trump, a lifelong Knicks fan, is expected to arrive in Manhattan around 7 p.m. There is a possibility he may return for Game 4 if the Knicks win on Monday. ESPN host Stephen A. Smith criticized Trump's appearance at the game, suggesting it could negatively impact the Knicks' performance and the Republican Party's standing in the upcoming elections.