Chicago – June 10, 2026
President Donald Trump received a hostile reception from crowds at Madison Square Garden on Monday night, becoming the first sitting US president ever to attend an NBA Finals game while being loudly booed during the national anthem.
Attending Game 3 between the New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs as a guest of Knicks owner James Dolan, Trump appeared on the arena’s jumbotron for approximately eight seconds while saluting the flag. The crowd responded with immediate, thunderous boos that continued even as the camera remained on him. Minutes later, cheers erupted when Knicks players were shown.
The historic visit triggered enhanced security measures in midtown Manhattan, including a secure zone restricting pedestrian and vehicle access, and forced authorities to cancel outdoor fan watch parties. Fans faced airport-style security checks with lines extending over two blocks.
Despite the negative reaction, Trump later claimed the atmosphere was “very enthusiastic”. The Knicks defeated the Spurs 115-111, taking a 2-1 series lead.
