Spike Lee Urges Knicks to Skip White House Visit

Filmmaker Spike Lee urged the New York Knicks not to visit the White House, saying owner James Dolan cannot compel the NBA champions to meet President Donald Trump. The team has not confirmed a final decision, and coach Mike Brown said in September that the organization was still discussing what to do and would decide together. Lee made the remarks in an interview published Monday. Asked about reports that some players opposed a visit, he said he hoped the Knicks would not go. His comments expressed his preference; they do not establish the players’ position or the organization’s decision. The status of the invitation has drawn conflicting signals. Dolan said in June that the team had accepted an invitation, though details still needed to be worked out. In July, Knicks guard Jalen Brunson said the players had not discussed the matter as a team. Brown later said the organization remained in discussion. Lee also addressed President Trump’s attendance at Game 3 of the NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden. The San Antonio Spurs won 115-111, handing New York its only loss in the five-game series and ending the Knicks’ 13-game playoff winning streak. Lee suggested the timing was not...