Trump responds after crowd reaction at NBA Finals game

What happened at the arena

The incident took place at Madison Square Garden before the start of Game 3 of the NBA Finals between the New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs.

He became the first sitting US president to attend an NBA Finals game, but his visit turned into a controversy.

According to the outlet, when Trump's face appeared on the big screen during the US national anthem, some spectators began loudly booing and chanting "Traitor."

Why New Yorkers were angry

It is noted that the discontent may have been linked not only to the political views of New York residents but also to extensive security restrictions imposed because of the president's visit.

To protect Trump, traffic and pedestrian movement around the arena were blocked, and fans had to undergo lengthy security checks.

In addition, the traditional fan zone near the arena was canceled, and local businesses lost a significant share of visitors because of the restrictions.

Trump attended the game with his granddaughter Kai Trump, Knicks owner James Dolan, and several senior administration officials.

Trump's reaction

Despite the reaction from the crowd, the US president did not acknowledge that he had been booed.

"I think it was mostly cheers. It was loud. And it was very enthusiastic," Trump told reporters before boarding his plane.

Donald Trump on the NBA after attending Game 3 of the Finals.

"It's a little left wing but it's great entertainment." pic.twitter.com/vNVfl4IcQ7

— Polymarket Sports (@PolymarketSport) June 9, 2026

This year's NBA Finals generated enormous excitement in New York, as the Knicks reached the championship series for the first time since 1999.

Trump recently walked out of a live television interview after becoming angry over a journalist's question about his statements regarding the 2020 election.

Video of the controversial exit quickly spread online.