NBA fans criticize Adam Silver's Donald Trump comments before Game 3
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NBA commissioner Adam Silver has largely kept U.S. president Donald Trump at arms' length over the years, but with Trump becoming the first sitting president to attend an NBA Finals game, the commissioner was forced to take a stance.
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Some fans aren't happy with the way he handled the situation.
After saying last week that he was "thrilled" Trump planned to attend Game 3, Silver spoke with the "Inside the NBA" crew before tip-off Monday and frustrated a segment of fans with his comments about the president's decision to attend.
Here's a look at what Silver had to say and why fans are upset.
MORE:Did Knicks fans boo Donald Trump at Game 3?
What did Adam Silver say about Donald Trump?
Speaking with the "Inside the NBA" crew Monday night, Silver said Trump attending the game is an example of "something that we have in common."
"What makes sports so special, especially when there’s so much that divides people, is it’s something that we have in common," Silver said. "We should look for those things we have in common and build off that."
Silver confirmed Trump was invited by Knicks owner James Dolan, rather than by the NBA, but he discussed the president's long history with the NBA and with the Knicks.
"He was a fixture at Madison Square Garden," Silver said. "He had courtside seats, he was here all the time."
Adam Silver on Donald Trump:
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) June 9, 2026
"He's welcome to be here. What makes sports so special, especially when there’s so much that divides people, is it’s something that we have in common. We should look for those things that we have in common & build off that."pic.twitter.com/AWN9nyoQwH
Plenty of NBA fans pushed back on Silver's comments, arguing that Trump has caused much of the division the commissioner is referring to and doesn't try to find the common ground that Silver is seeking. The reaction was unsurprisingly divided along political lines, with some fans giving credit to Silver for trying to stay apolitical.
Silver was seen in Trump's suite during the second quarter.
Adam Silver talking with President Trump in the president’s suite. pic.twitter.com/Uynv7eAciP
— Dan Zaksheske (@RealDanZak) June 9, 2026
There is no indication Trump plans to attend any more games in these NBA Finals, but Silver's comments indicate the president would be welcome if he changed his mind.