Trump and New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani to Attend Knicks Game 3 of NBA Finals

President Donald Trump and New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani said they will attend Game 3 of the NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden on Monday. Trump, a longtime Knicks fan, noted he was invited by team owner Jim Dolan and praised the team’s effort. Security considerations may keep him from a courtside seat, though his exact location has not been disclosed.

"They're really great, a great team. I'm happy for Jim because Jim has really been fighting hard to produce such a team," Trump told reporters.

Mamdani, who purchased his own ticket, indicated he will sit in a different section from the president and will not be in a suite or courtside. He expressed enthusiasm for the game and reiterated his willingness to welcome all Knicks supporters.

"If I do see him, I will let him know what I've said time and again, which is we're excited to welcome anyone and everyone who's rooting for the Knicks," Mamdani said.

The two officials have met several times since Mamdani’s 2025 mayoral victory, including a White House meeting that softened earlier political rhetoric. Their attendance reflects a growing, albeit cautious, bipartisan interaction surrounding a high-profile sporting event.