On “The View,” Whoopi Goldberg showed support for President Donald Trump and New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani attending Game 3 of the NBA Finals due to their status as longtime Knicks enthusiasts. Goldberg stated, “I think anybody who’s a Knicks fan should be there. You earned the right as a Knicks fan. I don’t have to like you.”
The discussion arose after clips aired showing fans’ disapproval of Trump and Mamdani’s attendance. Goldberg responded, “I’m sorry. Trump and Mayor Mamdani are Knicks fans and have been, they’re New Yorkers. And there’s nothing either one of them can do to change what’s happening in this city for this team.”
Trump’s Invitation
Trump mentioned that Knicks owner James Dolan had extended an invitation for him to attend. Trump commented, “I’ve been a Knicks fan for a long time and also a Jim Dolan fan. He’s a nice guy. The answer is, yes, he’s invited me, and I’m going.”
Despite objections from some fans, Goldberg dismissed the idea that their presence could affect the team’s performance, saying, “I don’t think anything can jinx anything. I think these guys are on a mission.”
Discussion on Jinx
Co-host Alyssa Farah Griffin warned that if the Knicks lost, Trump might face blame. Sunny Hostin interjected with concern about “the jinx.” Some fans expressed that Trump and Mamdani’s presence might disrupt the high-profile event.
Goldberg encouraged positivity, stating, “All we need to concentrate on is putting our energy and good energy towards them, towards the Knicks.” Trump plans to attend as Dolan’s guest while Mamdani will attend separately.
Game Context
The Knicks entered Game 3 with a 2-0 lead over the Spurs, in their first NBA Finals game in New York since 1999. Due to security concerns over Trump’s attendance, officials canceled a watch party outside Madison Square Garden and increased screening measures for fans.