Knicks Watch Party at MSG Is Canceled as Game 3 Security Ramps Up for Trump
Article excerpt
Madison Square Garden canceled a public watch party for Game 3 of the NBA Finals after more than a dozen arrests erupted at a similar event on Friday. President Trump and New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani are expected to attend Monday's game in person, prompting heightened security measures at the arena. The cancellation marks a sharp shift from the venue's initial plan to host fans outside the stadium, reflecting concerns about crowd management and potential disruptions surrounding the high-profile attendees.
President Donald Trump speaks at a political rally held at Verst Group Logistics in Hebron, Kentucky, on Wednesday, March 11, 2026.
Much to the delight of New Yorkers, the New York Knicks have a 2-0 lead over the San Antonio Spurs as the series heads to New York City, allowing the Knicks a chance to close out the series on their home court in Madison Square Garden. The only problem is that the everyday fan cannot afford to attend the games.
Heading into Monday night’s Game 3 showdown between the Knicks and Spurs, the ticket prices for the game have reached almost incomprehensible levels, as the cheapest tickets for the game were listed at around $8,000 on secondary markets. Still, United States President Donald Trump will be in attendance, and his message to everyday New Yorkers is to simply watch the game on television.
‘That’s the Way Life Goes’
Ahead of Monday night’s game, Trump was asked about the fact that he was attending the game while the average New Yorker was completely priced out of attending, but Trump didn’t have much of a response.
“You can watch it on television,” Trump said during a recent press interview on Air Force One. “It’s sort of semi-free to watch it on television.”
“That’s the way life goes,” Trump said. “Now, if the team wasn’t a big success, you could go very easily. That’s just the way life is.”
New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani has spoken out against soaring ticket prices for events like this, saying “sports should not become a luxury commodity.” He also worked with FIFA to secure $50 tickets to the upcoming FIFA World Cup for New Yorkers.
Fans Have Been Warned
Those who are lucky enough to have a ticket to Monday night’s game will have to deal with some extra security as a result of the president’s attendance at the game.
The Knicks issued a statement to fans on Saturday warning of the heightened security and the presence of the United States Secret Service.
“As we move closer to Game 3 of the NBA Finals on Monday night, Madison Square Garden and the United States Secret Service want to help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all ticket holders by sharing important security procedures that will be in place,” the statement reads.
“A strict no-bag policy will be in effect, and fans should make every effort to limit personal items to an absolute minimum. Fans should expect enhanced security measures when entering Madison Square Garden, including TSA-style screening procedures.”
The team is also warning guests to arrive at least two hours before tip-off to allow additional time for screening and entry.
The post ‘That’s the way life goes’: Donald Trump tells Knicks fans to ‘watch on television’ as he attends NBA Finals despite $8,000 tickets appeared first on The Comeback: Today’s Top Sports Stories & Reactions.