NEW YORK: New York’s iconic Madison Square Garden was placed under a virtual lockdown on Monday as authorities imposed extensive security measures ahead of President Donald Trump’s attendance at Game Three of the NBA Finals, restricting access around the arena and disrupting fan celebrations across the city.
Authorities barred fans without tickets from approaching several blocks surrounding the Manhattan venue and prohibited watch parties immediately outside the arena — a departure from previous playoff games that had attracted large crowds of supporters.
Ticket holders were advised to arrive at least two hours before tip-off to undergo airport-style security checks, while bags were banned inside the arena.
President Donald J. Trump’s motorcade arrives at Madison Square Garden in New York City ahead of tonight’s Game 3 of the NBA Finals 🏀🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/4pPLIQl0rf
— Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) June 8, 2026
“The message is simple: celebrate the Knicks, but avoid the MSG area tonight if you do not have tickets for the game,” NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch said during a briefing.
AFP reporters at the scene observed sections of Madison Square Garden surrounded by security fencing, while large numbers of Secret Service agents and New York police officers patrolled the area.
Trump’s visit sparks criticism
The security measures drew criticism from some New Yorkers and Democratic politicians, who argued that the president’s attendance had disrupted a major sporting occasion for the city.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer accused Trump of overshadowing the Knicks’ historic NBA Finals run, saying the focus should remain on the team rather than presidential security arrangements.
Despite the restrictions, some fans welcomed Trump’s presence.
“I think it really put a damper on all the watch parties. But it’s pretty cool he wants to show up and be a part of it,” Knicks supporter Anthony Pulley told AFP.
Knicks chase first title in more than five decades
The Knicks entered the game with a 2-0 lead in the NBA Finals series against the San Antonio Spurs, raising hopes of securing the franchise’s first championship since 1973.
The National Basketball Association (NBA), the world’s premier professional basketball league, consists of 30 teams across the United States and Canada.
The team’s success has generated intense excitement across New York, with demand for tickets reaching record levels despite soaring prices.
New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani was among those attending the game, although officials said he was not expected to sit alongside Trump.
Secret Service deploys enhanced measures
The Secret Service said counter-drone technology and other advanced security measures were being used to protect the president during the event.
Trump, a long-time Knicks fan, has made several high-profile appearances at sporting events and previously attended a UFC event at Madison Square Garden shortly after his election victory in 2024.
“The Secret Service’s focus is straightforward: to ensure everyone attending the game can enjoy the game and have a safe experience, while we carry out our responsibility to protect the President of the United States,” Special Agent Matt McCool said.
Meanwhile, police sought to ease concerns following a stabbing incident at nearby Penn Station that injured six people on Sunday, saying there was no indication of terrorism.
