Donald Trump Booed by Crowd at NBA Finals Game in New York

U.S. President Donald Trump was met with loud boos from spectators while attending a basketball game at New York’s historic Madison Square Garden during Game 3 of the NBA Finals on Monday night.

According to a report by Gothamist, the reaction came during the national anthem ceremony before the game began, when Trump’s image appeared on the arena’s big screen. Video footage from inside the stadium showed sections of the crowd erupting into boos and jeers, while a smaller number of supporters cheered in response.

The negative reaction was not limited to the arena. Similar responses were reported at an official New York Knicks watch party held at Bryant Park.

Trump’s attendance prompted heightened security across Midtown Manhattan. The New York Police Department (NYPD) and the Secret Service closed several blocks around the arena from the afternoon, causing disruptions for pedestrians and leading to the cancellation of a planned large public viewing event outside the stadium.

Hours before the game, hundreds of people gathered on West 34th Street. Some demonstrators held placards opposing Trump’s presence, while others attempted to take photos as his motorcade passed. A tourist from California, Tanya Olsen, told reporters that she altered her family travel plans to join the protest against the president’s visit.

The game marked the first NBA Finals appearance at home for the New York Knicks since 1999. The high-profile matchup against the San Antonio Spurs had already sold out in advance, while Trump’s visit added further strain on local transportation and daily movement in the area, according to local residents and business owners.