Updated
Updated · Fox News · Jun 5
Trump to Attend NBA Finals Game 3 After Questioning Wembanyama's Anthem Gesture in 105-95 Opener
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Jun 5

Trump to Attend NBA Finals Game 3 After Questioning Wembanyama's Anthem Gesture in 105-95 Opener

3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Jun 5

Summary

  • Game 3 at Madison Square Garden will draw President Donald Trump, who said aboard Air Force One that he plans to attend when the NBA Finals shift to New York on Monday.
  • Trump's appearance comes after he was asked about Victor Wembanyama standing with his arms folded during "The Star-Spangled Banner" before Game 1; Trump said he had not seen it and that Wembanyama should be asked what he meant.
  • Wembanyama, the Spurs' third-year French star, was not asked publicly about the gesture after the opener, leaving its intent unclear as attention around the series widened beyond basketball.
  • The Knicks lead 1-0 after a 105-95 Game 1 win in San Antonio, and Trump said he watched the opener, praised New York's improvement and called Wembanyama a player who "looks like he's going to be a great player."

Insights

With record ratings, can the NBA navigate a presidential visit and player controversy to keep fans focused on the game?
As a French superstar faces anthem scrutiny, can his on-court talent quiet the off-court noise?