Extensive security protocols and street restrictions will be implemented around Madison Square Garden on Monday when U.S. President Donald Trump attends Game 3 of the NBA Finals between the New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs.
The Knicks have surprised many by taking a commanding 2-0 advantage in the best-of-seven championship series, capturing both road victories while French star Victor Wembanyama has struggled to live up to expectations for San Antonio.
Despite nearby MetLife Stadium preparing to host its initial World Cup match in one week, the NBA Finals have captured New York’s attention, with resale tickets on StubHub starting at over $9,000 as of Saturday evening.
The Secret Service has advised fans to plan for early arrival at what calls itself the “World’s Most Famous Arena,” located above Penn Station, the nation’s busiest transportation center. This marks the venue’s first NBA Finals hosting in over 25 years with a sitting president attending.
“Attendees should anticipate hard street closures in the immediate area surrounding Madison Square Garden,” Secret Service Chief of Communications Anthony Guglielmi told Reuters in a statement.
“A strict no-bag policy will be enforced, and we want to communicate that early and broadly so fans can plan accordingly. Attendees should also expect Secret Service-level security screening, similar to airport screening procedures.”
Local subway and Long Island Rail Road services through Penn Station are anticipated to operate normally despite the heightened security measures.
During his second presidency, Trump has frequently appeared at major sporting events, becoming the first sitting president to attend the Super Bowl last year and subsequently appearing at the Ryder Cup and Club World Cup final.
Security delays related to Trump’s presence at the U.S. Open men’s final in September caused thousands of ticket holders to miss the match’s opening.
“To ensure timely entry and avoid delays, we strongly encourage fans to arrive at least two hours before tip-off. While final operational details are still being coordinated, this is the planning framework we currently expect and can be reported as such,” said Guglielmi.
The Knicks haven’t captured a championship since 1973, and their first Finals appearance since 1999 has energized all five New York boroughs.
Approximately 6,500 supporters gathered outside Madison Square Garden to watch the Knicks’ thrilling 105-104 victory over the Spurs on Friday night, securing their 2-0 series advantage.
During the outdoor viewing event, New York City police detained 17 people, including one individual who struck an officer in the face, according to the NYPD. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani called on fans to “celebrate responsibly.”
“New Yorkers are rightfully excited about the Knicks’ historic Finals run, and we want fans to celebrate this moment together. There is, however, no place for violence, and no tolerance for attacks on police officers,” Mamdani said in a statement on Saturday.
A devoted Knicks supporter, Mamdani has attended numerous local sporting events since winning the mayoral race last year and informed New York radio station 1010 WINS that he intends to be present at Monday’s game.
