The 2026 NBA Finals between the New York Knicks and the San Antonio Spurs is drawing television audiences not seen in nearly a decade. An average of 16.68 million viewers watched the first two games combined, according to Front Office Sports data cited by Yahoo Sports. That figure is up 89 percent compared to 2025 and marks the best NBA Finals ratings in eight years.
The Knicks last won an NBA championship in 1973. Their return to the Finals has brought fans out in large numbers all season, and that pattern has intensified as the series has progressed. Playing in the largest city in the United States has also contributed to the size of the audience.
San Antonio is the sixth-largest city in the country, and the Spurs bring their own history of success and a loyal fanbase to the matchup. A significant draw on the Spurs side is center Victor Wembanyama, one of the league's biggest stars. Casual NBA fans who rarely get to watch Wembanyama play have tuned in to see what the young big man can do on the Finals stage.
The quality of the games has also played a role. The Knicks won Game 1 by 10 points, but the game stayed close until the final quarter. Game 2 was even tighter, with the Knicks winning by a single point. Game 3 followed a similar pattern before the Spurs picked up their first win of the series.
Ratings for Game 3 are expected to be released Wednesday. Game 4 is also scheduled for Wednesday, with the Knicks holding a 2-1 series lead. Network executives at ABC, which broadcasts the Finals, are likely watching closely to see whether the Spurs can even the series and push the matchup toward additional games.
