SAN ANTONIO (AP) — While no official confirmation exists regarding President Donald Trump’s plans to attend upcoming NBA Finals games in New York, Commissioner Adam Silver suggested Wednesday that athletic events continue to serve as unifying forces during polarizing times.
Without directly naming Trump, Silver addressed questions about “unique people” expected at the New York games and the league’s preparation protocols for such occasions. According to The New York Post, which cited unnamed sources, Madison Square Garden staff have conducted “security walkthroughs” in preparation for a potential Trump appearance.
The series’ third game is scheduled for Monday in New York, which is Trump’s home city. Wednesday marked the series opener in San Antonio, with the second game set for Friday at the same venue.
“I think what’s really so special about sports in our society — and it’s a little bit of a cliché, but our increasingly divided society, and that goes to people who will be attending the first home game at Madison Square Garden — it truly brings people together,” Silver said. “It creates a sense of connectivity among people. It creates a sense of belonging, and I feel that every day.”
The White House had not responded to requests for comment by Wednesday evening.
Trump has frequently appeared at high-profile sporting events. He revealed to reporters recently that Knicks owner James Dolan extended an invitation to the NBA Finals, adding he would have attended Game 5 of the Eastern Conference finals — however, the Knicks completed their series victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers in just four games.
Trump described the Knicks’ first Finals appearance since 1999 as “great to see.”
Throughout his political career, Trump has regularly attended major sporting competitions. His recent appearances include the College Football Playoff championship and a primetime NFL matchup between the Pittsburgh Steelers and New York Jets shortly before the 2024 election.
