De'Aaron Fox addressed the extra security measures surrounding Game 3 of the NBA Finals due to Donald Trump's attendance at Madison Square Garden, calling the situation "inconvenient" for everyone.
San Antonio Spurs guard De'Aaron Fox spoke about the added disruption around the NBA Finals pre-game routine after former U.S. president Donald Trump was confirmed to attend Game 3 at Madison Square Garden.
San Antonio Spurs / Schedule
Fox pointed out that the presence of extra security and changes to team logistics are affecting normal preparation ahead of the matchup, especially with tighter restrictions in place around the arena.
"I think the president being here just makes it inconvenient on everybody else, we got obviously more security," he said in an interview with Jared Weiss. "We got to send stuff early. I think our bus is a little earlier, so that's that. Other than that, you know, when you come here and you play against this team, regardless of whether they're good or when they're not, it's gonna be a building that, comes ready to support the team."
Fox also described how strict the pre-game checks have become for players, comparing the process to airport security.
"Yeah, like the less stuff you can bring, the better. Obviously we're getting screened like it's TSA. It's a little inconvenient for the people that's got to play, but it is what it is."
With increased security levels, players have had to adjust their routines, limit personal items, and go through more detailed checks than usual before entering the arena.
Increased security measures at MSG
The New York Knicks organization confirmed that additional security procedures have been implemented for Game 3 due to high-profile attendance. These include a strict no-bag policy and enhanced screening for all fans entering the building.
Supporters have also been advised to arrive at least two hours before tip-off to avoid delays, as security checks are expected to take longer than usual.
The measures are designed to manage both crowd flow and safety, but they have also changed the usual pre-game atmosphere around one of the biggest games of the series.
Donald Trump has long been linked with the Knicks and has previously attended games at Madison Square Garden. His presence at Game 3 reportedly follows a personal invitation from Knicks owner James Dolan.
His attendance also continues a rare tradition, as the last sitting U.S. president to attend an NBA game was Barack Obama in 2015, when he watched the Chicago Bulls face the Cleveland Cavaliers.
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