Madison Square Garden and the United States Secret Service will enforce enhanced security measures for Game 3 of the NBA Finals on Monday night due to President Donald Trump's expected attendance.
The New York Knicks announced a strict no-bag policy and advised fans to arrive at least two hours before the 8:30 p.
m. ET tip-off against the San Antonio Spurs.
TSA-style screening procedures will be in place, the team said in a statement.
NBA officials noted that no sitting president is believed to have ever attended a Finals game, making the event historic.
"A strict no-bag policy will be in effect, and fans should make every effort to limit personal items to an absolute minimum," the Knicks statement read.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver addressed the unprecedented attendance on Thursday, saying extra security is understandable.
"There should be extra security for the president of the United States to be at a game, but I think the fans are very understanding of that," Silver said.
He added that the visit adds to the magnitude of the championship series.
Sports media personality Stephen A. Smith expressed opposition to Trump's appearance during his SiriusXM radio show on Friday, citing logistical disruptions.
"It has everything to do with him disrupting and contributing at the same time to the chaos that's going to be existing at Madison Square Garden," Smith said.
He noted his stance would be the same for any political figure, including Barack Obama.
"If it were Barack Obama coming to the Garden, I would say, 'Stay home. Stay at the White House,'" Smith said.
Smith predicted an unprecedented environment for Monday's game, saying he expects to see something he has never witnessed in over 30 years of covering sports.
On the court, the Knicks hold a 2-0 series lead over the Spurs after winning both games in Texas.
New York overcame a 14-point deficit in Game 1 and survived a fourth-quarter collapse in Game 2 behind clutch plays from Jalen Brunson.
The Knicks enter Monday's contest on a 13-game postseason winning streak and are two victories away from their first NBA championship in 53 years.
