Former Knicks guard says President Trump's appearance sparked negative reaction at Madison Square Garden
Raymond Felton described a hostile crowd response when Donald Trump was shown on the Jumbotron during Game 3 of the NBA Finals, and officials said the president will not attend Game 4.
President Donald Trump became the first sitting U.S. president to attend an NBA Finals game when he was present at Madison Square Garden for Game 3. Former Knicks guard Raymond Felton, who was in the arena, said the crowd reacted poorly when Trump appeared on the Jumbotron, describing the atmosphere as "so bad" and noting that the video feed quickly shifted to Knicks players instead.
Security measures around the venue were heightened for the president’s visit, including the closure of a ten-block area, cancellation of an outdoor watch party and additional screening checkpoints for fans. Knicks supporters had already expressed frustration over these restrictions.
New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch confirmed that outdoor watch parties for the following game remain scheduled, implying Trump will not return to the arena. ESPN reporter Shams Charania later reported that the 79-year-old president will miss Game 4 due to scheduling conflicts and other obligations.
The Knicks, holding a 2-0 series lead over the San Antonio Spurs, secured a 115-111 win in Game 3 despite the surrounding distractions. The team will look to extend its advantage in the upcoming contest.