President Donald Trump became a major storyline at Game 3 of the NBA Finals when he attended the matchup between the New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs at Madison Square Garden. As the first sitting U.S. president to attend an NBA Finals game, Trump’s appearance drew national attention and prompted heightened security measures around the arena. When shown on the jumbotron during the national anthem, he received a mixed reaction from the crowd, mostly boos echoing throughout the Garden. Despite the political buzz surrounding his visit, the focus eventually returned to the court, where the Spurs earned a 115-111 victory to cut the Knicks’ series lead to 2-1. (nypost.com)

There are videos circulating on social media of Trump getting booed as he arrived at MSG in his motorcade.

🚨HOLY SHIT: Crowds BOOO Trump as he arrives at Madison Square Garden in NYC to see Game 3.

Protesters are holding a huge sign that says "GO KNICKS, F**K TRUMP.”

He’s the most hated president in history! pic.twitter.com/tswPGY8OC0

— CALL TO ACTIVISM (@CalltoActivism) June 9, 2026

There were boos during the game.

@skynews

Donald Trump was seen saluting as the national anthem played at Game 3 of the NBA Finals basketball game between the New York Knicks and the San Antonio Spurs at Madison Square Garden. The U.S. President received a largely hostile reception when his image was projected on a big screen. SkyNews DonaldTrump NBA

♬ original sound – Sky News – Sky News

Trump LOUDLY booed during the national anthem pic.twitter.com/sKzIIhWQ2S

— Jack Settleman (@jacksettleman) June 9, 2026

And he got booed leaving MSG.

Trump gets booed and heckled out of New York City as he departs Game 3 of the NBA Finals. pic.twitter.com/IrBowW97qp

— MeidasTouch (@MeidasTouch) June 9, 2026