The New York Knicks have announced “TSA-style” security measures for game three of the NBA Finals, with US President Donald Trump set to attend the match.
The franchise on Sunday put out a statement on social media, warning fans to arrive to the game up to two hours early, saying they can expect the kind of entry screening you would find at an airport.
Donald Trump photographed at a New York Knicks game in 2012. Getty
The Knicks currently lead the NBA Finals 2-0 over the San Antonio Spurs, winning both road games.
If they hold serve at home across games three and four, they will win their first NBA championship since 1973. It’s their first appearance in the finals this century.
But Trump’s appearance has added another layer to the game, with Madison Square Garden set to become a secure fortress for the night.
“As we move closer to Game 3 of the NBA Finals, 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’ statement reads.
“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 (MSG).
“There will be no storage available for prohibited items brought to the venue.”
The US Secret Service has shared the post on Twitter.
Fans have expressed their frustration, given the game is one of the most expensive NBA Finals ticket’s of all-time.
The ‘get in’ price for game three currently sits at $13,000. For game four, which could be a championship clinching game, that number sits at $18,300.
Fans with that kind of money to burn will now need to undergo this stringent security protocol to get into the Garden.
Trump, a New Yorker himself, occasionally attended Knicks games before becoming President.
However, he has more recently made appearances at UFC events and NFL games.
UFC boss Dana White poses with Donald Trump. Zuffa LLC
The UFC is set to host an event on the White House lawn next week.
Trump said he was invited to attend the NBA Finals by Knicks owner James Dolan and would have attended the Eastern Conference Finals, had they not swept Cleveland in four games.
He is expected to sit up in a corporate box, unlike celebrity super fans like Timothée Chalamet, Ben Stiller, Michael Imperioli and others who sit courtside.