The New York Knicks are preparing to make history as the first NBA championship team to visit the White House during President Donald Trump’s time in office, ending a years-long trend of NBA title winners declining or missing the traditional celebration.
An administration official confirmed that the newly crowned NBA champions have accepted an invitation from the White House and are expected to visit at a date that will be announced in the coming weeks.
Knicks owner James Dolan revealed the development during an interview with sports radio station WFAN, confirming that the organization had formally accepted the invitation.
“We just did receive an invitation from the White House, which we accepted,” Dolan said. “We still have to figure out the details, but yes, of course.”
White House officials also confirmed that discussions with the Knicks are ongoing and expressed anticipation about hosting the team.
The visit marks a significant moment in the relationship between the NBA and the White House. Throughout Trump’s first term, multiple NBA championship teams declined traditional White House visits, often citing political differences or scheduling concerns.
The trend began in 2017 when the Golden State Warriors opted not to attend a White House celebration after star guard Stephen Curry publicly expressed reluctance about visiting. Trump responded by withdrawing the invitation through social media. The Warriors again skipped a White House visit after winning another championship, while the Toronto Raptors also chose not to participate following their 2019 title victory.
The Los Angeles Lakers did not make a White House visit after winning the 2020 NBA championship amid disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Trump had previously criticized Lakers star LeBron James over his support for Curry and other players who challenged the administration.
Even after Trump returned to office, the Oklahoma City Thunder reportedly did not visit following their championship victory, citing scheduling and timing concerns.
The Knicks’ decision therefore represents a notable departure from recent NBA tradition and could signal a new chapter in the relationship between professional basketball champions and the White House.
Dolan, who has known Trump for decades, highlighted their long-standing friendship and said he was proud to bring the championship team to Washington. Earlier this month, he invited Trump to attend Game 3 of the NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden.
Although Trump received boos from sections of the crowd during the game, he later praised the Knicks’ championship run and congratulated key players including Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns, OG Anunoby, and Mitchell Robinson.
The Knicks secured their first NBA championship in 53 years, ending one of the longest title droughts in league history and delivering a long-awaited celebration for fans across New York City.
The upcoming White House visit is expected to further spotlight the franchise’s historic season while reviving a tradition that has largely been absent from the NBA during recent years.
