Madison Square Garden and the U. S.
Secret Service announced tightened security protocols on Saturday ahead of President Donald Trump's scheduled attendance at Game 3 of the NBA Finals in New York on Monday, June 8, 2026.
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The venue is implementing a strict no-bag policy and TSA-style screening procedures, requiring ticket holders to arrive at least two hours before the 8:30 p.
m. tip-off between the New York Knicks and the San Antonio Spurs.
Local authorities and federal agents are establishing a hard security perimeter around the Midtown stadium, which includes closing surrounding streets to vehicles and pedestrians.
The game marks the first time since 1999 that Madison Square Garden will host an NBA Finals matchup, driving ticket prices on the secondary market from a minimum of $9,000 to over $74,000.
President Trump confirmed his upcoming attendance aboard Air Force One during a trip to a farmers' event in Wisconsin, noting he accepted an invitation from Knicks owner James Dolan.
"I've been a Knick fan for a long time," said Trump, who also indicated he might attend Game 4 of the series.
When questioned about the high ticket prices locking out average American sports fans, the president noted that the prices reflect the team's massive success after a long period of losing.
"They can watch it on television," Trump replied. "It's sort of semi-free to watch it on television.
But that's the way life goes."
