Knicks to become first NBA champion to visit Trump White House, Dolan says

The New York Knicks, as the 2026 NBA champions, will become the first NBA champion to visit President Donald Trump’s White House after owner James Dolan accepted a June 17 invitation, following Dolan’s long‑time support of Trump and their meeting during the Knicks’ Game 3 loss.

An NBA champion will visit the White House for the first time during the administration of President Donald J. Trump.

New York Knicks owner James Dolan, who invited Trump to attend Game 3 of the NBA Finals, said the team will accept an invite from the president on Wednesday, June 17, during an appearance on WFAN New York.

“As a matter of fact, thank you for asking me that, we just did receive an invitation from the White House, which we accepted,” Dolan said during the appearance. “We still have to figure out the details, et cetera, but yes, of course. Look, I invited the President to come down for the game. He is a friend. I’ve known him for 30 years and I’m very proud to bring the team to the White House.”

The previous five NBA champions crowned during a Trump administration each declined to visit the White House, starting in 2017, when the Warriors won their first of two consecutive titles during a Trump term.