The New York NBA Championship Knicks are headed to the White House after winning their first title in 53 years. It’s a moment that speaks to the resilience and excellence of this team, and honestly, it’s bigger than basketball. The NBA Championship represents Black excellence on one of the biggest stages in sports.
Team owner James Dolan said Wednesday that the franchise has accepted President Donald Trump’s invitation, making the Knicks a potential first for an NBA champion during Trump’s time in office. “We just did receive an invitation from the White House, which we accepted,” Dolan said on WFAN New York, according to USA Today. “We still have to figure out the details, et cetera, but yes, of course.”
“Look, I invited the president to come down for the game. He is a friend. I’ve known him for 30 years and I’m very proud to bring the team to the White House,” he continued.
A White House official told Newsweek, “We have been in touch with the Knicks and look forward to hosting the team at a date to be determined in the future.”
No NBA title team visited during Trump’s first term, and several athletes across sports have skipped or declined White House celebrations. It’s a statement piece when athletes make those choices about what invitations align with their values.
Trump attended Game 3 of the Finals at Madison Square Garden at Dolan’s invitation, becoming the first sitting president to attend an NBA Finals game. That night, the team lost and many blamed it on his presence, which rapper Cardi B, who performed that night, called “dark.” After the Knicks beat the San Antonio Spurs, he praised Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns, OG Anunoby and Mitchell Robinson on Truth Social.
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