Knicks player Josh Hart’s 2020 anti-Trump tweets resurface amid MSG security controversy
New York Knicks forward Josh Hart’s six-year-old social media posts, in which he referred to President Donald Trump as a “dumbass,” have garnered millions of views ahead of Game 3 of the NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden.
Two tweets from 2020 by New York Knicks player Josh Hart, in which he referred to President Donald Trump as a “dumbass,” have gone viral ahead of Game 3 of the NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden. The resurfaced posts coincided with fan frustration over strict security measures imposed for the president’s attendance, which led to the cancellation of the outdoor watch party and long queues. Hart’s tweets, originally posted in response to Trump’s criticism of the NBA, garnered millions of views and widespread support from fans.
The viral tweets date back to September and November 2020. In September, Hart shared a Trump tweet criticizing the NBA for being “highly political” and added his own blunt comment. In November, following CNN’s call of the election for Joe Biden, Hart posted an all-caps message: “YESSIR!!!! GET TRUMP’S DUMBASS OUT THE WHITE HOUSE!!!!!!”
The Knicks are playing Game 3 of the NBA Finals against the San Antonio Spurs, holding a 2-0 series lead after sweeping the first two games. This event occurs in the context of the 2026 NBA Finals, where the New York Knicks are hosting the San Antonio Spurs at Madison Square Garden. President Trump’s attendance marks the first time a sitting US president has attended an NBA Finals game, according to historical context provided.
The incident follows broader scrutiny of security protocols for high-profile events involving the president, including recent probes into motives of suspects at other events like the White House Correspondents' Association dinner. President Trump’s attendance triggered enhanced security protocols, including the cancellation of the traditional watch party outside Madison Square Garden, strict no-bag policies, and significant traffic closures, leading to long lines and frustrated fans.
Fans booed Trump when he was shown on the Jumbotron during the national anthem performance. Karl-Anthony Towns recorded 21 points and 13 rebounds in Game 2. The article notes this is the Knicks’ first Finals appearance in 27 years.
