The New York Knicks are on the cusp of history, leading the San Antonio Spurs 2-0 in the NBA Finals. But ahead of Monday's Game 3 at Madison Square Garden, a blast from the past has stolen the spotlight — a 2020 tweet from Knicks star Josh Hart that celebrated President Trump's election loss.
Hart, now a key piece of New York's championship push, let his feelings be known on November 7, 2020, when news broke that Joe Biden had defeated Trump. “YESSIR!!!! GET TRUMP’S (expletive) OUT THE WHITE HOUSE!!!!!!” he wrote. The tweet, long buried, has resurfaced as the nation's leader plans to attend Game 3 on Monday evening.
President Trump, 79, is expected to be courtside at MSG, adding a layer of political tension to an already electric atmosphere. The Knicks haven't won a title since 1973, and fans are desperate to see them finish the job. But Hart's old words have reignited conversations about whether Trump's presence could jinx the team's run.
Security Tightens Around the Garden
With a sitting president in the building, the Secret Service isn't taking chances. MSG announced a strict no-bag policy and TSA-style screenings for all attendees. Fans are urged to arrive at least two hours early and to leave personal items at home. “Enhanced security measures” will be in place, and prohibited items won't be stored — they'll simply be turned away.
Hart's Wallet Woes
While Trump likely snagged a free seat, the same can't be said for regular fans. Get-in prices on secondary markets have soared past $7,000. Hart didn't hold back when asked about it. “$7K, $8K is ridiculous,” he told reporters. “A lot of people who have been waiting for this moment for a very long time unfortunately aren’t able to get into the building.”
His comments echo a broader frustration among supporters who feel priced out of witnessing history. The Knicks' first Finals appearance in decades has turned MSG into the hottest ticket in sports, but Hart's blunt criticism of the pricing struck a chord with fans watching from home.
A Night of High Stakes and High Emotions
Game 3 tips off shortly after 8 p.m. ET on ABC, with the Knicks aiming to take a commanding 3-0 series lead. The Spurs, however, won't go quietly. San Antonio has been resilient all postseason, but New York's home-court advantage at a sold-out MSG could prove decisive.
Hart's viral tweet adds an extra layer of intrigue to an already dramatic evening. Whether the president's presence motivates or distracts the Knicks remains to be seen. One thing's for sure: all eyes will be on Madison Square Garden — and on Josh Hart.
