Full Breakdown
Knicks Fans Confront Superstition, Security and Ticket Costs Ahead of Game 4
6/11/2026, 7:01:31 AM
Game 4 at Madison Square Garden: Fan Rituals, Security and Superstitions
At 3 p.m. on Wednesday, hours before Game 4 of the NBA Finals between the New York Knicks and the San Antonio Spurs, fans gathered outside Madison Square Garden to burn sage and copal, chant “We’re saging the Madison!” and protest the lingering “bad energy” they attributed to a recent political appearance. The 12-block barrier erected after Game 3 remained, and no Secret Service agents were observed.
Background: Knicks' Return to the Finals
The Knicks entered the series with a 2-0 lead, lost Game 3 and now lead 2-1. Watch parties for Games 1 and 2 drew crowds, but security concerns after the loss prompted cancellation of the planned 500-to-999-fan event for Game 4.
Security Barrier and Police Response
City officials approved a permit for up to 999 fans, but owner James Dolan cancelled the watch party. The barrier spanned twelve blocks, was staffed by hundreds of NYPD officers on 16-hour shifts, and reduced vendor foot traffic.
Official Statements from City Officials and Knicks Management
Mayor Zohran Mamdani posted on X: “Mr. Dolan has now decided to cancel the watch party. I know this is breaking hearts across our city, but if there’s one thing Knicks fans don’t need permission for, it’s showing up for our team wherever we may be — no matter the block or the borough. Knicks in five.” The city confirmed the 999-fan permit before the cancellation.
Criticism & Opposition
Fans directly blamed former President Donald Trump for the team’s recent losses, calling his presence a curse that spreads “bad voodoo” and “weird energy.” Vendors and some supporters also opposed the security barrier, arguing it restricted access and dampened fan enthusiasm.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
One source notes no Secret Service agents, another emphasizes NYPD presence. Fans claim former President Donald Trump brings a “curse” that harms the team, a view lacking evidence. Bianca Rose’s seance claimed contact with Willis Reed and saw the number six, but verification is absent.
Why It Matters: Cultural and Economic Stakes
Vendors report reduced foot traffic from the barrier, and upper-deck tickets cost more than a first car for many fans. These issues highlight tensions between fan identity, safety and commercial pressures during a historic finals run.
What’s Next
Game 4 will decide if the Knicks clinch the series. Fans anticipate more rituals, security tweaks, and continued debate over ticket costs.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We’re saging the Madison!” — Deisy, fan
- “He’s a curse to every team that he picks,” — Avery, fan
- “safety is number one.” — Row Jones, fan
- “I kept seeing the number six,” — Bianca Rose, psychic medium
