President Donald Trump became the first sitting U.S. president to attend an NBA Finals game, but the Madison Square Garden crowd delivered thunderous boos when he appeared on the jumbotron, moments before the New York Knicks suffered their first playoff loss in 14 games against the San Antonio Spurs.

Garden Crowd Rejects Presidential Appearance

The jeers erupted during the national anthem when cameras showed Trump seated in owner James Dolan’s suite above the court. The negative reception immediately shifted to cheers when the jumbotron focused on Knicks star Jalen Brunson standing on the court. The stark contrast in crowd reaction underscored the divided sentiment toward the president in his former home city of New York.

Trump later dismissed the negative reception, claiming the response was “mostly cheers” and “very enthusiastic.” When asked directly about the boos by reporters, the president said he thought the reception was “amazing” and “very good.” He praised both teams’ performance, calling the game “fantastic” and saying everyone “had a lot of fun” watching the talented players compete.

Security Delays and Street Protests

The presidential attendance created significant disruptions for regular ticket holders, with security screenings causing wait times exceeding two hours at the Midtown Manhattan arena. Trump’s motorcade faced hostile demonstrations along the FDR Drive from lower Manhattan, passing signs reading “Nobody wants you here” and “Trump must go.” Additional protesters displayed “Impeach. Convict. Remove.” messages, while crowds booed the motorcade as it arrived at the Garden.

Historic Knicks Streak Ends

The Spurs defeated the Knicks 115-111, snapping New York’s 13-game playoff winning streak, the second-longest in NBA history. Despite the loss, the Knicks maintain a 2-1 series lead after winning both games in San Antonio. The team, seeking its first championship since 1973, will face the Spurs again Wednesday night at Madison Square Garden for Game 4. The coincidental timing of Trump’s attendance and the Knicks’ first finals loss sparked immediate social media speculation about whether the president’s presence affected the home team’s performance.