Sports

Vibes Of First NBA Finals Game At MSG Since ’99 Already Ruined As Watch Parties Canceled, Fans Told To Show Up 2 Hours Early Due To Trump’s Attendance

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President Donald Trump has decided he is going to attend Game 3 of the NBA Finals between the New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs. As a result, the vibes at Madison Square Garden will be dramatically altered.

For the fans who paid thousands upon thousands of dollars for a ticket, they’re now being told to show up to Madison Square Garden a full two hours prior to the start of the game in order to comply with TSA-style security procedures.

Donald Trump’s presence at Game 3 of the NBA Finals is ruining the experience for New York Knicks fans as watch parties have been canceled, TSA-style screenings required

“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 said in a statement.

“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. Fans are encouraged to review the complete list of prohibited items before arriving at https://www.secretservice.gov/prohibiteditems. There will be no storage available for prohibited items brought to the venue.”

During the Knicks run to their first NBA Finals since 1999, there have been ever-present videos of fans watching the games and celebrating in the streets of New York City outside at watch-parties outside of MSG. Those will also not be happening due to Trump’s attendance, as a hard closure is expected around Madison Square Garden, with no watch parties, vehicle access or pedestrian traffic permitted in the secured area. Knicks fans are less than pleased, to say the least.

“Didn’t even attend his sons wedding but has to come to the Knicks game and ruin the vibes smh,” one viral tweet pointed out.

“This the quintessential story of how sports reflects the state of the world. Thousands of fans have waited for Game 3 their whole lives and now they’re priced out of entering the game and can’t even celebrate outside because one billionaire gets to attend the game for free,” ESPN contributor David Dennis Jr. wrote on social media.

The Knicks currently lead the best-of-7 NBA Finals 2-0 after winning the first two games of the series in San Antonio. Game 3 will tip off from MSG at 8:30 p.m. EST on Monday, June 8. The Knicks enter the matchup favored by 2.5 points.