With the New York Knicks preparing to host their first NBA Finals game in nearly three decades, Madison Square Garden is implementing heightened security measures ahead of Monday night’s pivotal Game 3.

The organization announced a series of special protocols for fans attending the matchup, including a strict ban on bags and enhanced screening procedures modeled after airport security checkpoints. Officials are urging spectators to arrive well ahead of the 8:30 p.m. tip-off to avoid delays and ensure they are seated before the opening quarter begins.

“A strict no-bag policy will be in effect, and fans should make every effort to limit personal items to an absolute minimum,” the team wrote. “Fans should expect enhanced security measures when entering Madison Square Garden, including TSA-style screening procedures. Guests are strongly encouraged to arrive at least two hours before tip-off to allow additional time for screening and entry.”

In addition, attendees have been advised to review the U.S. Secret Service’s list of prohibited items before arriving at the arena.

Under normal circumstances, Madison Square Garden permits small bags that fit beneath a seat and do not exceed 22 inches by 14 inches by 9 inches, according to arena guidelines. Those rules will be significantly tightened for Monday’s contest.

The increased security comes as President Donald Trump is expected to be among those in attendance for the highly anticipated game.

After reports surfaced this past week that Trump planned to attend the Finals at Madison Square Garden, the president later confirmed the plans himself.

The visit will mark the first time a sitting U.S. president has attended an NBA Finals game.

“[The Knicks] find a way to do it,” Trump told reporters Thursday. “They’re really great, a great team. I’m happy for [Knicks owner] Jim [Dolan] because Jim has really been fighting hard to produce such a team.”

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver also welcomed the president’s attendance, noting Trump’s longstanding ties to New York and his history as a Knicks supporter.

“We’re seeing that in New York, and I think President Trump is very much a New Yorker, and I’m thrilled that yet another New Yorker wants to participate in the enthusiasm and the joy around this Knick team,” Silver said this week.

The Knicks enter Game 3 riding tremendous momentum after victories in the first two games of the series, giving them a commanding 2-0 advantage over the Spurs. New York now stands just two wins away from capturing its first NBA championship since 1973—and will attempt to take another major step toward ending that 54-year title drought on its home floor Monday night.

{Matzav.com}