VIDEO: Trump booed by New York crowd during historic NBA Finals appearance

US President Donald Trump’s historic appearance at Game 3 of the NBA Finals was overshadowed by boos from sections of the New York crowd.

While Trump became the first sitting US president to attend an NBA Finals game in person, the reception at Madison Square Garden was far from warm.

According to CNN, tensions began building long before tipoff as fans endured lengthy queues caused by heightened security measures surrounding the presidential visit.

In a clip seen by TNX Africa, the loudest jeers erupted when the arena's Jumbotron showed Trump saluting during the national anthem.

Despite the reaction, Trump later downplayed the incident, insisting the crowd was largely supportive.

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"It was, I think, mostly cheers. It was loud, and it was very enthusiastic," Trump told reporters.

The president attended the game alongside his granddaughter Kai Trump and Knicks owner James Dolan. Several cabinet members, including Doug Burgum and Lee Zeldin, were also present.

Outside the arena, presidential security measures brought parts of Midtown Manhattan to a standstill.

According to BBC, a large deployment of NYPD officers and Secret Service agents enforced road closures and strict access controls around the venue, creating airport-style security checks for fans.

On the court, home supporters suffered a narrow disappointment as the New York Knicks lost 115-111 to the San Antonio Spurs. Despite the defeat, the Knicks still led the series 2-1.

The high-profile matchup also attracted several celebrities, including Tina Fey, Ben Stiller and Timothée Chalamet. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani was among those in attendance.