Full Breakdown
Stephen A. Smith Blames Donald Trump for Knicks’ Loss; Trump Responds
6/13/2026, 7:07:37 AM
Game Night Clash: Trump’s Attendance and the Knicks’ Defeat
On June 8, 2026, President Donald Trump attended Game 3 of the NBA Finals between the New York Knicks and the San Antonio Spurs at Madison Square Garden. The Knicks lost 107-106, ending a 13-game winning streak. ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith publicly attributed the loss to Trump’s presence, arguing the president disrupted the team’s momentum.
Background: Trump’s Visit and Public Reaction
Trump’s arrival featured a motorcade, a Jumbotron image and a national-anthem segment that drew loud boos. Critics said his presence created logistical challenges, prompting street closures and canceling a planned watch party. Observers noted his eyes were closed during the game, describing it as dozing.
Key Players: Stephen A. Smith, Donald Trump, Sean Hannity, and the Knicks
Stephen A. Smith, an ESPN commentator, led the criticism, while former President Donald Trump responded via Truth Social and press briefings. Fox News host Sean Hannity invited Smith to his show, where Smith defended his remarks. The New York Knicks, owned by James Dolan, were central to the dispute.
Data & Statistics: Winning Streak, Game Scores, and Audience Response
Before Game 3, the Knicks had a 13-game winning streak, the longest since 1999. They fell 107-106 in Game 3, then won Game 4 by one point (107-106) after a 29-point comeback. Audience metrics recorded repeated booing of Trump during the national anthem and at the Jumbotron display.
Official Statements & Responses
Smith said Trump had no business at the game and urged him to stay away from the Knicks until the season ends. Trump replied that Smith lacks the aptitude and high IQ to run for president, labeling him an arrogant fool. He also asserted his closed eyes were only a blink, a claim echoed by a White House rapid-response account.
Criticism & Opposition
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez reposted the video of Trump’s closed eyes, urging him to “wake up.” The White House rapid-response account dismissed the criticism, calling the claim that Trump was sleeping “just blinking.” Media outlets and fans highlighted the incident as evidence of the president’s declining health, referencing earlier instances of apparent dozing at public events.
Verbatim Quotes
“He had no business at that game.” — Stephen A. Smith
“I take no offense with the president coming after me the way that he did,” — Stephen A. Smith
“He is a nice guy, but you need a certain aptitude to run for president. You need a high IQ,” — Donald J. Trump
“Trump “If it was that important for you to be there, why did you look like you were asleep?” — Donald J. Trump
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Some observers described Trump’s closed eyes as a brief blink, while others labeled the episode a nap. No medical assessment has been released, leaving the president’s health status unverified. The claim that Trump’s presence directly caused the Knicks’ loss remains anecdotal, with no statistical analysis linking the two events.
What’s Next
The Knicks will complete the NBA Finals series, and Smith has said he will continue to criticize Trump if the team loses again. Trump has not announced further public sports appearances.
