Knicks to be first NBA champion to visit Trump White House as Dolan confirms plans
USA Today—New York Knicks owner James Dolan confirmed the NBA champions will visit President Trump's White House, making them the first NBA team to do so during Trump's presidency. Most NBA teams declined similar invitations during Trump's first term amid political tensions between the league and the president. The Knicks' decision drew significant media attention given the NBA's history of friction with Trump, particularly over player activism and political statements. Separately, Ukrainian boxing champion Oleksandr Usyk also visited the White House and met with Trump during the same period. Reports also emerged that Trump's birthday celebrations left the White House grounds in notably poor condition, prompting public commentary.
- USA Today — Knicks owner James Dolan personally confirmed the team will make the White House visit.
- DNyuz — Reports said Trump's birthday celebrations left the White House grounds in visibly poor condition.
- DNyuz — Trump birthday bash leaves White House grounds damaged
- Kyiv Independent — Ukrainian boxing champion Oleksandr Usyk visited the White House and met with President Trump.
- NOTUS — The Knicks will be the first NBA team to visit Trump's White House, according to NOTUS.