A verbal dispute has erupted between Stephen A. Smith and Donald Trump. The conflict follows a New York Knicks defeat in Game 3, which Smith attributes to the President's presence.

The 115-111 loss that snapped a 13-game streak

The New York Knicks saw their impressive 13-game playoff winning streak come to an abrupt end during Game 3 of the 2026 NBA Finals. The San Antonio Spurs secured a 115-111 victory, a result that has sent shockwaves through the Madison Square Garden crowd. This loss is particularly stinging because Knicks fans have waited 27 years to witness their team compete in a Finals game at their home arena.

The sudden end to the Knicks' momentum has led to various theories regarding the team's performance. While some attribute the loss to tactical errors, commentator Stephen A. Smith has pointed toward the presence of President Donald Trump as a disruptive force. Smith, 58, claimed the President's attendance disrupted the team's "mojo" and ultimately contributed to the defeat.

Trump's IQ jab at Stephen A. Smith

President Donald Trump, 79, respponded to these "jinx" accusations by targeting the intelligence of commentator Stephen A. Smith. Following Smith's claim that the President's presence messsed things up, Trump turned the criticism toward Smith's potential political future.. Trump suggested that the media personality lacks the necessary aptitude for office, stating, "You need a high IQ,I don't really think Stephen A Smith has that," as reported by the source.

This verbal exchange highlights the intersection of sports media and political commentary during a high-stakes championship series.. The feud between the two men has become a secondary narrative to the actual basketball being played on the court, drawing attention away from the Spurs and Knicks matchup.

TSA-style security for Dejounte Fox and the Spurs

The presence of the President in New York City caused significant logistical challenges for the San Antonio Spurs players. Spurs guard Dejounte Fox, 28, described the heightened security environment as "inconvenient" for the athletes. Fox noted that the team had to undergo screening processes similar to TSA protocols and adjust their transportation schedules, includinng sending equipment earlier than usual, to accommodate the President's visit.

Ann Coulter's critique of the President's NYC visit

Conservative activist Ann Coulter also weighed in on the President's presence at Madison Square Garden. coulter suggested that the visit would make the experience more difficult for fans, describing the President's actions as "selfish" and "narcissistic." According to the report, Coulter expressed frustration that the President's appearance coincided with the Knicks' loss, adding to the tension surrounding the series.

Will the Knicks recover for Game 4 on June 10?

As the NBA Finals prepare for Game 4 on Wednesday, June 10, at Madison Square Garden, several questions remain unanswered. It is unclear whether the New York Knicks can overcome the psychological impact of their recent loss or the external distractions caused by the Smith-Trump feud. Additionally , the report does not specify if the Knicks' coaching staff has addressed the "mojo" concerns raised by Smith or how they plan to manage the heightened security for the upcoming game.