SouthernWorldwide.com – The presence of President Donald Trump at Game 3 of the NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden has led to a significant increase in security measures, prompting reactions from players.
The heightened security is reportedly causing some inconvenience for the players, as the arena prepares for its most prominent guest to date.
Even NBA Commissioner Adam Silver has acknowledged the potential positive impact of Trump’s attendance, noting that it can serve as a genuine boost to viewership numbers.
However, not all players share the same enthusiasm. Players like Spurs guard De’Aaron Fox and Knicks forward OG Anunoby have expressed that the increased security has become a notable disruption.
SECRET SERVICE, TSA AND NYPD TRANSFORM MADISON SQUARE GARDEN INTO FORTRESS FOR TRUMP’S NBA FINALS VISIT
De’Aaron Fox commented ahead of Game 3 in New York City that the enhanced security protocols at Madison Square Garden have become somewhat of a bother.
“I think the president being here just makes it inconvenient on everybody else,” Fox stated on Monday. “We have, obviously, more security. We have to send our gear in earlier. I think our buses are arriving a little earlier.”
“We’re getting screened as if we’re going through TSA,” Fox added. “It’s a bit inconvenient for those of us who have to play, but it is what it is.”
Fans attending Game 3 will also be subjected to more thorough security screenings due to President Trump’s expected presence.
Meanwhile, with President Trump’s 80th birthday approaching later this week, OG Anunoby was questioned about the president’s anticipated appearance at Game 3.
“He’ll just be there watching the game. We’re going to proceed as usual, play our game, and try to win,” Anunoby responded matter-of-factly.
Given the polarizing nature of President Trump’s public image, attention has quickly shifted to which NBA players might publicly endorse his attendance. Conversely, some have argued that the president’s presence should be viewed as an honor.
Spurs sensation Victor Wembanyama also became a subject of discussion after he stood with his arms folded during the national anthem prior to Game 1. However, President Trump offered no criticism when asked about the moment.
“Wemby’s a great player,” Trump remarked. “I say, ‘How do you guard this guy?'”
While Josh Hart has not publicly commented on President Trump’s attendance, the Knicks guard is known for being one of the more outspoken players participating in the Finals. Hart posted a message on Twitter in November 2020 that read, “YESSIR!!!! GET TRUMP’S DUMBA** OUT THE WHITE HOUSE!!!!!!”
The Knicks are entering Game 3 with a commanding 2-0 lead in the series. Historically, teams that secure a 2-0 advantage in the NBA Finals go on to win the championship approximately 87% of the time, indicating a strong historical precedent in their favor.
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