ESPN Host Urges President to Skip NBA Finals Game at Madison Square Garden
Stephen A. Smith said the president’s attendance at Game 3 would add to an already chaotic scene. The Knicks lead the series 2-0 and are two wins from their first title since 1973.
New York PostStephen A. Smith said on his SiriusXM radio show Friday that he does not want the president at Madison Square Garden for Game 3 of the NBA Finals on Monday night. Smith stated the presence would “disrupt and contribute at the same time to the chaos” already expected at the arena.
He added that he would give the same advice to any former president. The Knicks hold a 2-0 lead over their opponent after a 105-104 win in Game 2 on Friday night. The team has won 13 straight playoff games and needs two more victories for its first championship in 53 years.
Background on planned attendance The president, a New York native, has attended high-profile events at the Garden in the past and told The Post’s Emily Goodin on May 27 that he had been invited to Knicks games. He noted the team’s recent success and said he expected to attend one of the Finals contests.
Atmosphere around the series Knicks fans have staged large street celebrations after recent playoff wins in Manhattan and other parts of the city. Smith, who has covered sports for more than 30 years, said he anticipates an unprecedented environment at the arena on Monday.
