The New York Knicks hope to continue their dream playoff run and go up 3-0 over the San Antonio Spurs at game three of the NBA Finals in Madison Square Garden, the first Finals game there since 1999. But due to the planned attendance of President Donald Trump, fans are bracing for significant disruptions to their potentially once-in-a-lifetime (and extremely pricey) experience.

Trump’s impact on the game was felt as soon as Saturday, when the Knicks issued a statement advising fans that a “strict no-bag policy” will be in effect and that there will be no on-site storage of prohibited items barred by the Secret Service that were brought to the venue. The team also encouraged fans to arrive hours in advance, making a trip to the famed Garden more reminiscent of travel to La Guardia Airport.

“Fans should expect enhanced security measures when entering Madison Square Garden, including TSA-style screening procedures. Guests are strongly encouraged to arrive at least two hours before tip-off to allow additional time for screening and entry,” the statement reads.

It’s not the first time Trump-related enhanced security screenings have messed with sports fans in New York. When Trump attended the U.S. Open Men’s Final last year, some fans were heavily delayed getting to their seats, even as the start........

© Daily Intelligencer