Why does Stephen A. Smith want Donald Trump away from the NBA Finals?
Donald Trump is expected to attend Game 3 of the 2026 NBA Finals between the New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs.
Olivia Bennett 
The 2026 NBA Finals shift to Madison Square Garden on Monday for a pivotal Game 3, marking the first time in nearly three decades that the New York Knicks have hosted a championship game. However, the spotlight might be divided as the President of the United States is reportedly set to attend the matchup.
Stephen A. Smith calls for a front-row seat to be left empty
Sports media personality Stephen A. Smith is pushing back on the presidential visit. Speaking on his YouTube show, Smith argued that the President's presence would only heighten the already electric and potentially chaotic atmosphere surrounding the Knicks' return to the Finals stage.
"He’s coming to Game 3 of the Finals, and I don’t want him there. It has nothing to do with politics, policy, or anything like that. It has everything to do with him disrupting and contributing at the same time to the chaos that’s going to be existing at Madison Square Garden," Smith said. He further emphasized that his stance is non-partisan, noting, "If it were Barack Obama coming to the Garden, I would say, ‘Stay home.’"
Security measures intensify at MSG
The logistics of a presidential visit have already altered the game-day experience. According to reports, extra security measures have been implemented to accommodate the President, including TSA-style screenings for fans and the cancellation of the scheduled watch party outside the arena.
While these security protocols may extend to Game 4 should the President decide to return, his attendance for that contest remains unconfirmed. For now, all eyes are on Monday night as the Knicks face the San Antonio Spurs at 7:30 p.m. on ABC.
