Trump tipoff: President Donald Trump to attend Game 3 of the NBA Finals

History is set to unfold at Madison Square Garden on Monday, June 8. As the 2026 NBA Finals reach a fever pitch, Game 3 will feature an unprecedented guest in the arena: the President of the United States.

A Presidential Tipoff

On Thursday, President Donald Trump confirmed he has accepted an invitation from Knicks owner James Dolan to attend the contest between the New York Knicks and the San Antonio Spurs. "The answer is yes," the President told reporters, adding, "[Dolan] has invited me, and I’m going. I’ll be there. It could be Monday. Maybe I’ll do both [Game 3 and Game 4]."

This appearance marks the first time a sitting president has attended an NBA Finals game. While his role as Commander in Chief is new to the venue, Trump is no stranger to the Garden, having been a familiar face courtside throughout the years alongside family and various guests.

Eyes on Wembanyama

Before the presidential visit, the series continues with Game 2 this Friday. President Trump expressed clear admiration for the Spurs' standout talent, Victor Wembanyama. "[Wembanyama] is a great player," Trump noted. "He’s already a great player. I said, 'How do you guard this guy?' He’s 7-foot-5 and has a great shot."

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver views the high-profile attendance as a positive moment for the league. "President Trump is very much a New Yorker," Silver said. "I’m thrilled another New Yorker wants to participate in the enthusiasm and the joy around this Knicks team."

Tipoff for Game 3 at Madison Square Garden is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on Monday, June 8, with coverage broadcast on ABC.