Knicks Issue Urgent Security Update Ahead of NBA Finals Game 3
Madison Square Garden hasn't hosted an NBA Finals game in 27 years and Monday night was already going to be a massive deal for New York. Now it's shaping up to be one of the most security-heavy events the arena has ever seen.
Reports surfaced over the past week that President Donald Trump is expected to attend Game 3 of the NBA Finals between the New York Knicks and the San Antonio Spurs. Trump, a 79-year-old New York native, had previously mentioned that Knicks governor James Dolan extended an invitation for a playoff game and that he wanted to see the team compete on the biggest stage in basketball.
The Knicks carry a 2-0 series lead into Game 3 and are riding a 13-game winning streak as they chase their first NBA title since 1973. The city is already buzzing. Add a presidential visit to the mix and the security situation around MSG was always going to be significant.
Moreover, The Athletic reported Mayor Zohran Mamdani's schedule for the night was still being finalized, leaving open the possibility that both the president and the mayor could be in the building.
Knicks Cancel Watch Parties, Announce TSA-Style Screening for Game 3
In anticipation of Trump's reported attendance, the Knicks canceled all outdoor watch parties for Game 3. The organization, working alongside the U.S. Secret Service, rolled out a detailed list of enhanced security measures for fans heading to the arena.
"As we move closer to Game 3 of the NBA Finals on Monday night, Madison Square Garden and the United States Secret Service want to help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all ticket holders by sharing important security procedures that will be in place," the Knicks announced. "A strict no-bag policy will be in effect and fans should make every effort to limit personal items to an absolute minimum. Fans should expect enhanced security measures when entering Madison Square Garden, including TSA-style screening procedures. Guests are strongly encouraged to arrive at least two hours before tip-off to allow additional time for screening and entry."
— NEW YORK KNICKS (@nyknicks) June 6, 2026
List of Prohibited Items in MSG for Game 3
- Weapons of any kind
- Toy guns
- Selfie Sticks
- Aerosols
- Ammunition
- Raspberry-Pi enabled devices
- Animals other than service/guide animals
- Backpacks and bags exceeding size restrictions (18" by 13" by 7")
- Drones and other unmanned aircraft systems
- Explosives
- Glass, thermal, or metal containers
- Laser pointers
- Mace / Pepper spray
- Firearms
- Flammable liquids
- Flipper Zero
- Packages
- Pineapple Wi-Fi router
- Range Finders
- Bicycles
- Coolers
- Recreational motorized mobility devices
- Balloons
- Signs exceeding the size restrictions (20' x 3' x 1/4")
- Structures
- Supports for signs and placards
- Any other items determined to be potential safety hazards
Related: Victor Wembanyama's Honest Game 2 Confession Could Change Everything for Game 3
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This story was originally published June 7, 2026 at 9:16 AM.