NBA Declines Flagrant Upgrade on Wembanyama in 115-111 Finals Game 3

Q: With the president absent, why did the 'frozen zone' security remain for Game 4, sparking conflict between MSG and the city?

The “frozen zone” stayed in place for Game 4 because city officials said it was no longer about President Trump’s visit, but about preventing a repeat of the disorder that followed Game 3. After Game 3, a Bryant Park watch party turned chaotic, with at least 21 arrests, several reported fights, property damage, and five injured police officers. In response, the NYPD and Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s administration kept the six-block security perimeter around Madison Square Garden for Game 4, saying the restrictions were a necessary public-safety measure. Access remained limited to people with game tickets, train tickets, proof of residence, or specific business in the area, and screening rules stayed strict. That decision triggered a sharp dispute with Madison Square Garden. MSG argued the continued lockdown showed the original perimeter was “never about the president” and was instead being used to limit fan celebrations. The arena’s leadership said the restrictions hurt the game-night atmosphere and damaged nearby businesses that depend on Knicks crowds. Some local bar owners also complained of lost revenue and blocked customer access. The city pushed back, saying the perimeter was justified by the violence after Game 3 and that MSG had been aware restrictions could continue. Officials also noted that the Game 4 watch party was allowed to return in a reduced, ticketed format, capped at about 1,000 people, rather than being fully open as in past games.

3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Jun 11

ESPN reported Tuesday that Victor Wembanyama will not receive a retroactive flagrant upgrade for his uncalled first-quarter contact that sent Knicks guard Jalen Brunson to the floor in Game 3.
That decision keeps Wembanyama from adding a third postseason flagrant point; under NBA rules, players face automatic suspension once they reach 4 points.
Referees let play continue when Wembanyama turned and pushed Brunson’s upper body as Brunson tried to set a screen, drawing strong protests from the Knicks bench and wider debate afterward.
San Antonio won Game 3 115-111 to cut New York’s NBA Finals lead to 2-1 entering Wednesday’s Game 4.