The New York Knicks have a big decision to make. Their historic victory over the San Antonio Spurs for their first NBA championship in over 60 years captured the heart of the city. But, that city, has become very leftist, evidenced by their new mayor, Zohran Mamdani, a democratic socialist.
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However, that doesn’t extend to James Dolan, who accepted the President’s invite to tour the White House after their victory. However, one superfan is hoping his beloved team will call in sick to the trip.
Legendary film director Spike Lee, one of the most prominent and vocal New York Knicks, made his stance clear on the team visiting the White House.
“He can’t force them!” Lee told Variety. “It’s been years since the last NBA team has gone. They’re not going. I hope they don’t go!”
The Boston Celtics were the last team to accept the invite, but that was during Joe Biden’s presidency, as did the Milwaukee Bucks previously. The Golden State Warriors skipped out every year they won, except for 2022, when Biden was president. The Toronto Raptors skipped in 2019 when Trump was first President. The Oklahoma City Thunder also declined the invite last year.
New York Knicks Head Coach Mike Brown said the team would discuss internally if they would attend.
Spike Lee is urging the New York Knicks not to visit the White House after owner James Dolan accepted an invitation from President Donald Trump.
— Complex (@Complex) November 2, 2026
“He can’t force them,” Lee told Variety, adding, “They’re not going; I hope they don’t go! I hope they don’t go.” The Knicks have yet… pic.twitter.com/DJKr0MKrzy
