NYPD cancels Knicks finals watch party amid presidential security protocols
Public gathering outside Madison Square Garden scrapped following unrest at previous game and attendance of President Donald Trump
The New York Police Department has cancelled the public watch party outside Madison Square Garden for Game 3 of the NBA finals, citing enhanced security measures required for President Donald Trump’s attendance. The decision was made in coordination with the US Secret Service following incidents of unrest, including more than 20 arrests, during celebrations for Game 2.
The cancellation ends speculation regarding the safety of the traditional gathering outside the arena. Tensions escalated after Friday’s Game 2, where the Knicks defeated the San Antonio Spurs to take a 2-0 series lead. The subsequent watch party spilled into the streets surrounding the Garden, resulting in more than two dozen arrests. According to the NYPD, one woman was specifically accused of punching a police officer in the face during the incident.
The New York Knicks have implemented a strict no-bag policy and airport-style screening procedures for fans entering the venue. The team is encouraging fans to arrive at least two hours before the 8:40pm local tipoff as part of these enhanced security measures. This marks the first NBA finals game held in New York City since 1999, when the Knicks lost to the Spurs.
President Trump is attending the match as a guest of Knicks owner Jim Dolan. He has already attended several major sporting events in his second term, including the 2025 Super Bowl, Daytona 500, and Ryder Cup. The game takes place amid a fevered atmosphere in New York as the Knicks attempt to win their first NBA title since 1973. They lead the Spurs 2-0 in the best-of-seven series and are on a 13-game winning streak.
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has confirmed he will also attend the game, stating he will be in a different section from Trump and paying for his own ticket. The mayor’s office indicated there is little chance the two prominent political figures will cross paths, though the presence of both the President and the Mayor under one roof sets a unique scene for the finals.
