The 2026 NBA Finals did massive numbers across the board, Google searches reached new highs, social media clips set records, and Knicks merchandise has been in high demand.

In parallel, sportsbooks experienced a surge in activity. DraftKings reported that five of the six most bet NBA games in its history occurred during this Finals series, with Game 5 emerging as the most heavily wagered NBA game ever recorded by DraftKings.

“Initially, the sportsbook was rooting for the Knicks, as the Spurs represented the largest liability on the futures market,” explained BetMGM Sports Trader Anthony Parenti. “However, when New York took a 2-0 series lead, our liability situation shifted dramatically.” BetMGM recorded several significant bets on the Knicks prior to the series’ start.

One bettor placed a $20,000 wager on New York to secure the title at odds of 22/1 in the first round, while another committed $200,000 on the Knicks to win the Finals before the series kicked off. These bets alone amounted to a potential payout of $750,000.

BetMGM was not alone in experiencing substantial bets throughout the series. In Nevada, one bettor made headlines by wagering $500,000 at Caesars Sportsbook on the Knicks to win the Finals at -140 odds following their Game 1 victory, netting over $350,000 in winnings.