NBA Finals ratings surge as Knicks face Spurs in record viewership

The NBA Finals between the New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs achieved the highest ratings since 1998, averaging 20.6 million viewers across ABC and ESPN. Game 5, which saw the Knicks clinch the series, peaked at 33 million viewers. This postseason marked a significant increase in fan engagement, with record social media interaction and merchandise sales. The Knicks set an all-time record for merchandise sales within 24 hours of their championship win, aided by a strong performance from Jalen Brunson and standout player Victor Wembanyama for the Spurs. The NBA Finals delivered a record 15 billion views across social media platforms, nearly tripling the previous year's record.

• 12:01 AMYahoo Sports — Knicks vs. Spurs delivers highest NBA Finals ratings since 1998 (when Jordan was still a Bull)