Rapper Cardi B brought high-energy nostalgia to Game 3 of the NBA Finals with a halftime performance at Madison Square Garden as the New York Knicks faced the San Antonio Spurs.
The New York native opened with Bodega Baddie from her latest album before rolling into her 2017 breakout hit Bodak Yellow, performing alongside dancers in Knicks jerseys.
Fans in the arena got a close-up view of the set, which featured her signature long hair and a grey bodysuit.
After the performance, Cardi B, born Belcalis Almánzar, remained courtside with her son Wave to watch the second half.
She later shared moments from the game on Instagram, joking that her seats were placed next to the opposing Spurs bench.
“They got me right next to the opps! But I’mma be nice because I know this is a lot for them,” she said on Instagram Stories.
The performance, which aired on NBA League Pass, sparked mixed reactions online. Some praised the appearance, while others were more critical.
In a clip shared by TNX Africa, commentator Charles Barkley made light-hearted jokes about Cardi’s outfit and stage name during the broadcast, drawing laughter from fellow announcers.
“I don’t know if those B’s. They might be Cardi D’s. I’m pretty sure those aren’t B’s… She got the wrong initials,” Barkley joked. Instagram user Mickey wrote in response, “That girl from the Bronx living it up. I always love Cardi B.”
The night also featured Broadway performer Avery Wilson, who sang the national anthem and has become a recurring presence during the Knicks’ 2026 playoff run, often described by fans as a “lucky charm.”
On the court, the Spurs edged the Knicks 115-111 in Game 3, cutting New York’s series lead to 2-1. Victor Wembanyama led San Antonio with 32 points, while Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby combined for 60 in a tightly contested game.
The closing minutes saw a flurry of clutch plays, with Brunson hitting a deep three to narrow the gap before De’Aaron Fox responded with a key jumper. Anunoby later sank a corner three to bring the Knicks within two, but Stephon Castle sealed the win at the free-throw line.