Fans Jeer Trump Amid Tight Security at NBA Finals

US President Donald Trump received a mixed reception on Monday night after being booed by sections of the crowd during Game Three of the NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden in New York.

The Republican leader was watching the game from a luxury suite when his image appeared on the arena’s giant screen during the national anthem, prompting audible jeers from some spectators. 

His attendance triggered one of the most extensive security operations seen at the venue in recent years.

Authorities restricted access to several blocks surrounding Madison Square Garden and cancelled public watch parties that had accompanied previous games in the championship series. 

The Secret Service, supported by hundreds of New York Police Department officers, deployed heavily armed personnel and counter-drone technology to protect the president.

The heightened security generated criticism from some residents and politicians who argued that the measures disrupted one of the city’s biggest sporting events.

Among the critics was Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, who accused Trump of turning attention away from the basketball spectacle.

Despite the controversy, thousands packed the arena as the San Antonio Spurs defeated the New York Knicks 115-111 to reduce the Knicks’ lead in the best-of-seven NBA Finals series to 2-1.

Trump, a longtime New York Knicks supporter, later watched the remainder of the game alongside family members and invited guests as security personnel maintained a heavy presence throughout the evening.