Trump Reacts to Spurs Star Victor Wembanyama Folding His Arms During National Anthem

The 2026 NBA Finals have generated extra attention for multiple reasons, with the New York Knicks facing the San Antonio Spurs and French star Victor Wembanyama drawing headlines. One of the biggest storylines came from President Donald Trump, who plans to attend Game 3 at Madison Square Garden when the series moves to New York.

Trump was asked about Wembanyama after the Spurs star stood with his arms folded during “The Star-Spangled Banner” before Game 1 in San Antonio. The gesture, captured on national television, sparked discussion online and raised questions about whether it was intended as a political statement. Wembanyama, who is from France and not American, did not address the moment after the game.

When asked about it aboard Air Force One, Trump said he had not noticed the pose and sought clarification on what Wembanyama meant by it. After being told that no one had asked the player to explain his actions, Trump said the question would need to be directed to Wembanyama himself.

Trump also commented on Game 1, saying he watched the contest and was impressed by the level of play. He praised the Knicks as an outstanding team and said their performance has improved throughout the series. He also acknowledged Wembanyama’s talent, calling him a player with a bright future.

On the court, the Knicks opened the Finals with a 105-95 victory in San Antonio to take a 1-0 series lead. The win gave New York an early advantage in the best-of-seven matchup and added even more anticipation for the remaining games.

Game 3 is scheduled for Monday night in New York, with tipoff set for 8:30 p.m. ET. Trump’s planned attendance is expected to add another layer of interest to an already high-profile Finals matchup.

The series has become a major conversation point not only for basketball fans, but also for those following the political and cultural angles surrounding one of the sport’s biggest stages. With the Knicks holding the early lead and Wembanyama emerging as one of the most talked-about young players in the league, the Finals are drawing attention well beyond the box score.