President Donald Trump was received with a mix of applause and boos during his attendance at the third game of the NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden, becoming the first sitting president to attend a match at this sporting event.

The moment occurred during the performance of the American national anthem. While singer Avery Wilson sang “The Star-Spangled Banner,” the venue's giant screens showed the image of Trump performing a military salute. Although initially chants of “USA, USA” were heard, a significant portion of those attending responded with loud boos.

The reaction subsided when the broadcast returned to focus on the American flag and later on the New York Knicks players, who received a standing ovation from the audience.

An unprecedented security operation

The presidential visit completely transformed the atmosphere around Madison Square Garden. Several hours before the start of the game, Secret Service agents and elements of the New York Police Department deployed a wide security perimeter around the stadium.

Attendees had to overcome multiple access filters, including metal detectors similar to those used in airports. According to local reports, the mobilization altered pedestrian and vehicular traffic in several areas of Manhattan.

Outside the premises there were also expressions of rejection towards the president. Some protesters carried signs with messages against him, while others made gestures of disapproval as the presidential motorcade passed through the streets of the city.

Trump followed the game from the box of Knicks owner James Dolan, accompanied by members of his inner circle and members of his cabinet. During the meeting he also held conversations with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver.