Spike Lee sparks controversy at Knicks NBA Finals with ICE protest and court‑side outburst

Film director Spike Lee, a self‑described New York Knicks superfan, warned that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) should not be present at any future Knicks championship parade, asserting “No ICE.” He framed the potential parade as a “love fest” for New Yorkers and criticized the planned deployment of ICE agents in the city.

During Game 3 of the 2026 NBA Finals, Lee stepped onto the court repeatedly to confront officials, prompting a wave of backlash on social media. Fans posted messages such as “Sit the f*** down!” and called his behavior “nauseating.” The Knicks lead the series 3‑1 over the San Antonio Spurs and are one win away from their first championship since 1973.