Stephen A. Smith calls Trump selfish, narcissistic for attending NBA Finals
The ESPN personality didn't hold back Monday.
Ryan Cooper 
The atmosphere surrounding the NBA Finals is already electric, but ESPN's Stephen A. Smith isn't holding back on his criticism regarding an unexpected guest. Smith sounded off Monday on the decision for President Donald Trump to attend Game 3 of the series between the New York Knicks and the San Antonio Spurs at Madison Square Garden.
A Logistical Nightmare at the Garden
Trump is set to become the first sitting president to attend an NBA Finals game, a move that Smith labeled as "selfish," "narcissistic," and "ridiculous" during Monday's edition of "First Take." Smith argued that the visit creates a significant logistical burden for the city.
"This president has no business showing up in New York City," Smith said, emphasizing that his stance is non-partisan. "I would say the same thing if it were Obama, George W., Clinton, I don’t give a damn if we went back to Reagan."
Smith pointed to the unique challenges of Manhattan's infrastructure compared to other venues. "This is not a football stadium in some space in Texas... This is the Garden. This is midtown Manhattan. Do you have any idea what the congestion is going to be like in New York City here?"
Security Measures and Fan Impact
The presidential visit has forced heavy security adjustments. The NYPD and the Secret Service have established a massive multi-block security perimeter around the arena, resulting in a strict no-bag policy and the cancellation of planned watch parties outside the venue. This comes at a high-stakes moment for the Knicks, who are currently riding a 13-game winning streak and chasing their first title since 1973.
Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch addressed the changes during a Monday news conference. "The NYPD in coordination with the Secret Service made the decision for Game 3... that we could not support watch parties right outside of the Garden," Tisch explained. She noted that while watch parties are expected to return for Game 4, New Yorkers should anticipate significant lockdowns for this evening's contest.
The Associated Press contributed to this report for 205focus.com.
