Trump’s presence at the game had already sparked major controversy, even before tip-off, as enhanced security measures in and around Madison Square Garden caused severe delays for fans. In a statement posted to social media on Saturday, the Knicks advised fans to arrive at the arena two hours before tip-off to undergo “TSA-style screening.”

Long lines of fans were spotted hours before the game, and planned watch parties outside the arena were canceled due to the increased security measures. However, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced that a watch party would be held in Bryant Park during the game.

Trump wasn’t just booed inside the arena. Videos from watch parties across New York City later surfaced showing fans who couldn’t attend the game sharing similar sentiments about the president’s visit.

Online critics also praised Knicks fans for raining down a chorus of boos when the president was shown on the arena’s Jumbotron. Some questioned why Trump would attend the game knowing full well what would happen. Even the Trump-friendly New York Post shared a video from inside the arena and noted that Trump was “booed during National Anthem of NBA Finals Game 3.”