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orywireFans going to Knicks vs. Spurs Game 3 at Madison Square Garden should bring no bags, arrive early and expect enhanced security screening. The NBA Finals game is scheduled for 8:30 p.m. ET Monday, June 8.
By Laura CollinsPublished 
Fans going to Knicks vs. Spurs Game 3 at Madison Square Garden should not bring a bag. The Knicks said a strict no-bag policy and enhanced screening will be in effect for Monday’s NBA Finals game, with ticket holders urged to arrive at least two hours before the 8:30 p.m. ET tipoff.
The security changes are tied to President Donald Trump’s expected attendance, the Associated Press and Reuters reported. Game 3 had not started as of the last check; NBA.com listed San Antonio at New York for Monday, June 8, on ABC and ESPN, with the Knicks leading the series 2-0.
For this game, treat the policy as no bags. Do not plan to bring a backpack, tote, purse or other carry-in bag to MSG unless the Knicks, MSG or your ticketing account gives you a specific event-day exception.
The Associated Press reported that the Knicks said there will be no storage at Madison Square Garden for prohibited items. That means fans who arrive with a bag could lose time leaving the line and finding another place for it.
Fans who believe they need an exception should check with MSG or the Knicks before heading to the arena, because the public advisory checked for this article did not list detailed exceptions.
The Knicks are encouraging guests to arrive at least two hours before tipoff. For an 8:30 p.m. ET start, that means being near the building and ready to enter by about 6:30 p.m.
Ticketmaster’s event listing also tells fans to arrive early and check their ticket for the suggested entrance based on seat location. Keep the mobile ticket ready before reaching the screening area, and carry only essentials that can stay in your pockets.
Fans should expect airport-style screening before entering MSG. The Associated Press reported that the Knicks described the procedures as “TSA-style,” while Reuters reported that the Secret Service said attendees should expect Secret Service-level screening similar to airport procedures.
Reuters also reported that hard street closures are expected in the immediate area around Madison Square Garden. The exact flow around entrances can change on event day, so fans should avoid last-minute ride-share or car drop-offs directly at the arena.
Madison Square Garden sits above Penn Station, which makes transit the simplest option for many fans. Reuters reported that local subway and Long Island Rail Road train service through Penn Station was expected to continue uninterrupted, even with extra security around the arena.
Fans should still build in extra walking and screening time. Streets, sidewalks and entry routes immediately around the Garden may not move like they do for a regular Knicks game.
Before heading to Midtown, check the Knicks, Madison Square Garden and Ticketmaster event pages for any event-day update. Security instructions can change, and Ticketmaster’s listing says venue protocols and event requirements are subject to change.
The Associated Press reported that the Knicks directed fans to the Secret Service prohibited-items list. Review that guidance before leaving if you are unsure about an item.
The main takeaway for Game 3 is simple: bring no bag, arrive early, use the entrance listed on your ticket and expect a longer security process than a standard Knicks game.
New York City has scheduled a Knicks championship ticker-tape parade for Thursday, June 18, at 10 a.m. ET. The route begins at Battery Park, travels north on Broadway through the Canyon of Heroes and ends at City Hall.
Knicks vs. Spurs Game 5 is scheduled for Saturday, June 13, at 8:30 p.m. ET on ABC. New York leads San Antonio 3-1 and can clinch the NBA championship with a win.
Knicks vs. Spurs Game 4 is scheduled for Wednesday, June 10, at 8:30 p.m. ET on ABC. Here is the confirmed NBA Finals schedule, streaming context and where the series stands.
