An AFP reporter yesterday saw a three-metre fence around parts of Madison Square Garden and a heavy presence of Secret Service personnel charged with protecting the US President.
Victor Wembanyama, of the San Antonio Spurs, looks to pass the ball as Knicks centre Mitchell Robinson defends during the NBA Finals. Photo / Getty Images
Knicks fan Eric Velez, 45, said he planned to watch the game at a Manhattan bar because he did not have a ticket and could not get near the venue due to the security measures.
“It’s looking good so far. I’m nervous. Hopefully, they do it this time,” Velez said ahead of the game.
Packed venue
The Knicks have a commanding 2-0 lead in the best-of-seven series against the San Antonio Spurs, and now the action shifts to the Big Apple for games three and four.
The team, chasing their first basketball championship since 1973, have whipped up a feverish following in the US’ largest city.
Ticket prices for today’s game are out of the reach of most New Yorkers, but the self-proclaimed “World’s Most Famous Arena” will still be packed to the rafters, with celebrity fans courtside.
Among those attending is New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who told reporters he paid nearly $1000 (NZ$1700) for his tickets. He is not expected to watch alongside Trump.
The Secret Service plans to deploy counter-drone technology as part of its operation to protect the US leader, who has faced three alleged assassination attempts in less than two years.
US President Donald Trump is a Knicks fan. Photo / Getty Images
Trump, a long-time Knicks fan, last visited Madison Square Garden in November 2024 to watch a UFC fight after his election victory. He earlier held a campaign rally at the venue.
“We all know what tonight means to New Yorkers who have been waiting a long time for an opportunity like this,” Special Agent Matt McCool told reporters.
“The Secret Service’s focus is straightforward: to ensure everyone attending the game can enjoy the game and have a safe experience, while we carry out our responsibility to protect the President of the United States.”
The New York Police Department said it would not increase security specifically at Penn Station because of Sunday’s stabbing.
NYPD Chief Michael LiPetri said that hundreds of officers are assigned to the transit hub, adding that the deployment there “will not change in light of the incident yesterday”.
– AFP