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Both President Donald Trump and NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani are expected to attend Game 3 of the NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden tonight, with tipoff scheduled for 8:30pm. As a result, the New York Police Department announced yesterday that there will be no official watch party outside the arena citing security concerns connected to the high-profile attendances.
The decision isn't entirely surprising. Although the presidential visit ultimately prompted the cancellation, outdoor watch parties around MSG had already become a point of contention throughout the Knicks' historic Finals run. Before the series even began, city officials debated whether to allow the gatherings after large, unofficial celebrations following playoff wins led to crowd-control concerns. The city ultimately moved forward with the Plaza33 watch parties, but not without hesitation.
As seen in countless viral social media videos, thousands of New Yorkers have poured into the streets to celebrate the Knicks' first NBA Finals appearance since 1999. Those celebrations have occasionally turned chaotic, with fans climbing structures, spilling into roadways and multiple arrests being made following Game 2 celebrations.
In an official statement, the NYPD said that the decision to cancel tonight's watch party was made in coordination with the Secret Service because of the presidential visit.
"The permit for the Plaza33 Game 3 watch party was denied by the city's permitting office in consultation with the NYPD," an MSG spokesperson said in an official statement. "However, the White House will confirm that this is not about the president. We understand NYPD Commissioner Tisch is planning additional street closures around Madison Square Garden."
The NYPD has also indicated that official watch parties outside MSG are expected to resume for Wednesday's Game 4. And with the Knicks leading the series 2-0, that game could carry even more weight as the team inches closer to its first NBA championship since 1973.
Earlier today during an official press conference, Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch also outlined the security plant for tonight, noting that the NYPD will set up a perimeter from West 30th Street to West 35th Street between 6h Avenue and 8th Avenue. Seventh Avenue and 8th Avenue will be closed to both car and pedestrian traffic starting today at 4pm unless presenting a "ticket to the game, a train ticket, they are going to a businessin the area, they have credentials or they have some other authorized reason to be there," she said. Expect NYPD officers to screen those entering the secured area as well.
If you're still looking to watch tonight's game with a crowd, there are still a few legal options around the city. Official watch parties are being held at Wollman Rink in Central Park and Brooklyn Bowl in Williamsburg, while Bryant Park has also been added as a viewing location for Game 3. Some of these events require advance registration and may already be at capacity, so it's worth checking availability before heading out.
Wherever it is that you will be watching, take in the unique feeling of witnessing the entire state united in in this one giant cheer: let's go, Knicks!