Ticketholders boo Trump as NBA Finals security clogs entry to Madison Square Garden

Irate ticketholders booed U.S. President Donald Trump as they waited in lines more than two blocks long outside Madison Square Garden on Monday. Airport-style security measures were in place for the Republican's attendance, marking the first time a sitting U.S. president attended the NBA Finals.

More than half the seats in the arena remained empty with only an hour to go before tipoff in Game 3 of the Finals. The New York Knicks held a 2-0 lead over the San Antonio Spurs in the best-of-seven series. A heavy security presence slowed entry, with metal fencing creating a maze around the venue and restricting pedestrian traffic.

Boos erupted as Trump's motorcade arrived. "I wish he wasn't here. He's not a real fan, and he's just making things awful," said Errol Ismail, a Brooklyn resident. "We've waited a lifetime for this, and he's made it about himself, like everything else." Trump, who had been at his New Jersey golf club, arrived in Manhattan via helicopter and motorcade.

Fans were anticipating the game, with New York playing its first Finals home game in 27 years. Trump, a native New Yorker, has a contentious relationship with the city and has criticized activism within the NBA. His attendance at a U.S. Open tennis final last year also caused security delays and confusion for ticketholders. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani was also expected to attend.

Security plans had been heightened over the weekend. The New York Police Department stated that pedestrians without an "authorized reason" would be barred from a secure area around the arena. Those entering the area faced screening and limited access points. A traditional outdoor watch party was canceled due to security concerns. Some attendees welcomed the president, while others stated they were taking a night off from politics.

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I wish he wasn't here. He's not a real fan, and he's just making things awful. We've waited a lifetime for this, and he's made it about himself, like everything else.