Did Trump really fall asleep or is it more mainstream media bias?
A viral video from Game 3 of the NBA Finals has sparked fresh debate online after viewers claimed President Donald Trump appeared to briefly doze off while attending the highly anticipated matchup at Madison Square Garden.
The clip quickly spread across social media, generating thousands of reactions from both supporters and critics of the president. While some dismissed the footage as misleading, others pointed to the video as evidence that Trump may have momentarily nodded off during the game.
The controversy gained even more attention after ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith used the moment to launch a blistering response to the president during Tuesday’s episode of First Take.
Stephen A. Smith Fires Back At Trump
The latest feud began before Game 3 of the NBA Finals when Smith criticized Trump’s planned appearance at Madison Square Garden.
According to Smith, the president’s visit created major disruptions for fans throughout Manhattan. Security measures surrounding Trump’s attendance resulted in road closures, restricted access around the arena, and enhanced screening procedures for those entering the venue.
Smith argued that thousands of loyal New York Knicks fans were inconvenienced by the extensive security operation.
Earlier in the day, the veteran broadcaster even joked that if the Knicks lost, Trump should share some of the blame.
The Knicks ultimately fell short, ending one of the team’s most impressive playoff runs in recent memory.
Trump Questions Smith’s Intelligence
After the game, reporters asked Trump about Smith’s criticism.
The president responded by questioning whether Smith possessed the intelligence necessary to run for higher office, referencing rumors that the ESPN star has considered entering politics.
Trump suggested that anyone seeking the presidency must possess exceptional aptitude and indicated he was not convinced Smith met that standard.
The remark quickly became a major talking point online and set the stage for Smith’s response less than 24 hours later.
Smith Blasts Security Measures Around Madison Square Garden
During Tuesday’s broadcast, Smith delivered a lengthy monologue while standing behind a podium with an American flag graphic displayed behind him.
The presentation resembled a presidential address as Smith defended his earlier comments and doubled down on his criticism.
Rather than immediately responding to Trump’s IQ remarks, Smith focused on the impact that the president’s visit allegedly had on fans attempting to attend the NBA Finals.
He described significant traffic congestion throughout Manhattan and argued that road closures made it difficult for residents, commuters, and basketball fans to move around the area.
Smith claimed he personally witnessed frustrated drivers and large crowds struggling to navigate around the security perimeter established near Madison Square Garden.
For many Knicks fans, he argued, the game-day experience was dramatically altered because of the heightened security presence.
Viral Video Fuels New Debate
Smith eventually shifted his attention to the viral clip that dominated social media discussions following the game.
The footage showed Trump seated in his luxury suite with his eyes closed for several moments.
While some viewers interpreted the video as evidence that the president had fallen asleep, others argued that the brief clip lacked enough context to draw any firm conclusions.
No official explanation has been provided regarding the moment captured in the video.
Still, the footage quickly became one of the most discussed topics surrounding Trump’s appearance at the NBA Finals.
WATCH:
DONALD TRUMP HAS FALLEN ASLEEP AT THE NBA FINALS IN MADISON SQUARE GARDEN. pic.twitter.com/rFrW6c4cME
— CALL TO ACTIVISM (@CalltoActivism) June 9, 2026
“Sleepy Joe” Comparison Resurfaces
During his response, Smith pointed to Trump’s longtime criticism of former President Joe Biden.
For years, Trump frequently referred to Biden as “Sleepy Joe,” a nickname that became a staple of campaign rallies and political speeches.
Smith suggested that critics may now attempt to apply similar scrutiny to Trump following the circulation of the video.
The comparison immediately generated strong reactions online, with supporters of both men debating whether the criticism was fair.
Trump Remains A Magnet For Attention
Love him or hate him, Trump continues to dominate headlines wherever he goes.
What began as a simple appearance at one of the biggest sporting events of the year quickly transformed into another major political and cultural flashpoint.
Between the security concerns, the Knicks’ loss, the exchange with Stephen A. Smith, and the viral video itself, Trump’s visit to Madison Square Garden became one of the most talked-about moments of the NBA Finals.
As the footage continues making the rounds online, many Americans are reaching their own conclusions about what really happened.
Watch the video below and decide for yourself.