Game three of the NBA Finals between the San Antonio Spurs and the New York Knicks captivated a massive audience, achieving the highest viewership for a Game 3 in nearly three decades. The broadcast on ABC and ESPN averaged 23.79 million viewers, a figure that includes an additional 1.1 million who tuned into an alternative ESPN telecast. This momentous occasion had not been witnessed since 1998, when Michael Jordan led the Chicago Bulls to victory against the Utah Jazz, securing their second consecutive three-peat championship.
The intensity of Monday's game peaked at 11:15 p.m. ET, drawing an impressive 26.3 million viewers during the contest's thrilling final moments. This year's Game 3 performance shattered ABC's previous record for an NBA Finals Game 3, which was 20.05 million viewers during the 2017 Golden State-Cleveland series. The current NBA Finals series is averaging approximately 19.1 million viewers through its initial three games, making it the second most-watched series at this stage, only narrowly behind the 2017 Finals' 19.48 million average.
This year's Finals have seen more than double the viewership of the 2025 series, which featured the Oklahoma City Thunder and Indiana Pacers—teams from smaller media markets. Despite San Antonio also being a relatively modest market, the Spurs' storied championship legacy and the presence of superstar Victor Wembanyama have drawn significant interest. The New York Knicks, representing the nation's largest television market, are striving to end a 53-year championship drought, further fueling viewer engagement. The series continues with Game 4 on Wednesday in New York, followed by Game 5 in San Antonio on Saturday, with potential Game 6 and 7 matchups slated for June 16 and 19, respectively.
The extraordinary viewership figures for this year's NBA Finals underscore the enduring appeal of competitive sports and the captivating narratives that unfold within them. The blend of historical significance, emergent talent, and established franchises creates an electrifying atmosphere that resonates deeply with audiences, fostering a collective experience of excitement and anticipation. This remarkable success serves as a testament to the power of live events in uniting millions and inspiring a shared sense of passion and admiration for athletic excellence.
