OG Anunoby had no interest in turning Donald Trump's expected Madison Square Garden appearance into a Knicks distraction.
The New York forward was asked about Trump attending Game 3 of the NBA Finals against the San Antonio Spurs on Monday, June 8.
It is already a huge night. The Knicks lead the series 2-0, MSG is hosting its first NBA Finals game since 1999, and security will be tighter because of the presidential visit.
Photo by Mandel NGAN / AFP via Getty Images
SNY Knicks shared Anunoby's response after he was asked about Trump being in the building for Game 3 at Madison Square Garden.
"He'll just be there watching the game. We're going to go as usual, play our game. Try to win the game."
That was as direct as it gets. Anunoby did not lean into the politics, the celebrity angle or the extra media attention around the game.
His answer fits the Knicks' situation. They are two wins from a championship, and any extra storyline can become noise if players allow it to.
Trump confirmed Thursday, June 4, that he planned to attend after Knicks owner James Dolan invited him.
He said he has been a Knicks fan for a long time and praised Dolan, while also leaving open the possibility that he could attend Game 4 as well.
Game 3 tips off Monday at 8:30 p.m. ET at Madison Square Garden, with the Knicks trying to move within one win of the title against Victor Wembanyama and the Spurs.
The Knicks have waited 27 years to host another NBA Finals game, and the building is expected to be charged from tipoff.
Trump's presence will add attention, but Anunoby's answer made the Knicks' priority clear. The only thing that really changes the series is what happens on the floor.
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