Increased Security for NBA Finals Game at Madison Square Garden

On this particular day, Madison Square Garden is temporarily transformed into something akin to Fort Knox.

While outside the arena for Game 3 of the NBA Finals on Monday, ESPN NBA insider Shams Charania had an unexpected encounter with the Secret Service. He recounted, “I actually got stopped by the Secret Service… My AirPod fell off, and they came up to me and said, ‘Hey, Secret Service, please exit this intersection,'” during an appearance on “NBA Today.”

The heightened security is due to President Donald Trump’s anticipated attendance at the game. Fans are encouraged to arrive two hours ahead of time to navigate through TSA-style magnetometers and several checkpoints.

Additionally, a no-bag policy will be enforced for this game. Knicks supporters who usually gather outside MSG for playoff games will need to seek alternative locations since multiple blocks surrounding the arena will be closed off. Alternative watch parties are set to take place at Bryant Park.

According to NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch, working alongside the Secret Service, the decision to halt viewing parties close to the Garden was made due to the president’s visit. “We look forward to returning to Game 4 viewing parties,” she stated at a press conference. “New Yorkers are typically accustomed to the president arriving, which often leads to local lockdowns, and that’s what guests can expect tonight at the Garden.”

Players are also facing the impact of the increased security measures, as both teams will undergo TSA-like screenings before heading into the arena. Spurs guard De’Aaron Fox acknowledged the inconvenience, stating, “It’s an inconvenience for people who have to play.”

Knicks players shared their thoughts on Trump’s presence and the added security but appeared largely unfazed. “It’s cool,” said Knicks center Mitchell Robinson. “We can still go out and play, no matter who is here or who isn’t.”