Silver welcomed the president’s attendance, calling Trump “very much a New Yorker” and framing the visit as an opportunity to “emphasize what we have in common, not what pulls us apart,” according to the Guardian.

The commissioner vouched for Trump’s longstanding connection to the sport, saying “Donald Trump, before he ever ran for office, he was a big Knicks fan.”

Silver recalled attending Knicks games with Trump “in the old days” and noted the president attended multiple NBA drafts when they were held at Madison Square Garden.

The Knicks are riding a 12-game playoff winning streak and making their first Finals appearance since 1999. The team has not won an NBA title since 1973.

A Madison Square Garden spokesman told NJ.com that the president is always welcome at the venue regardless of who is in office.

However, Trump’s presence may create logistical challenges for fans. When he attended the U.S. Open men’s final last September, enhanced security measures caused significant delays and long lines for attendees.

ESPN previously reported Trump’s attendance for Monday’s matchup. The Knicks were scheduled to play Game 2 in San Antonio on Friday before returning to New York.

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