OG Anunoby’s game‑winning basketball from the Knicks’ Game 4 victory in the 2026 NBA Finals is now up for auction at Sotheby’s, giving collectors a rare piece of championship history.
What is being auctioned?
Sotheby’s announced on June 14, 2026 that the official game ball Anunoby tipped in the decisive fourth quarter will be offered in its upcoming sports memorabilia sale. The ball, signed by Anunoby and his teammates, is presented in a climate‑controlled case with a certificate of authenticity. It’s the same leather sphere that rolled through the net with 2:37 left, sealing a 108‑102 win for New York.
Why does this matter for OG Anunoby?
The Knicks’ forward, a native of London, has become one of the league’s most marketable British players. Owning the ball links his on‑court impact to a tangible collector’s item, reinforcing his brand beyond the hardwood. The auction also highlights Anunoby’s growing influence in the global basketball market, where UK‑born stars remain a rarity.
How does the auction work?
Sotheby’s will host a live online bidding session on July 12, 2026. The starting bid is set at $45,000, with a reserve price undisclosed. Bidders must register through the auction house’s website and provide proof of funds. The sale includes a detailed provenance report, confirming the ball’s use in the Finals and its post‑game handling by the Knicks’ equipment staff.
What could the sale mean for future memorabilia?
If the ball fetches a high price, it could spark a wave of interest in UK‑born NBA players’ collectibles. Anunoby’s agent, Mark Henderson, hinted that other items—such as his rookie shoes—might follow. The auction also underscores how NBA milestones are turning into lucrative assets for athletes who can leverage their on‑court moments into long‑term financial gains.
Who else is involved?
The Knicks’ general manager, Scott Parker, confirmed the team’s cooperation with Sotheby’s, noting that the organization wants to celebrate Anunoby’s contribution to the franchise’s first championship in 45 years. NBA historian Jeff Simmons praised the ball’s significance, calling it “one of the most iconic pieces from a historic series.”
What’s next for OG Anunoby?
After the Finals, Anunoby is expected to return to preseason training with the Knicks in early September. He’ll also appear in a series of promotional events for the auction, including a live interview with ESPN’s NBA Tonight. Fans can watch the auction live on the Sotheby’s website and place bids in real time.
The sale represents a rare crossover of sport, culture, and commerce, turning a single basketball into a symbol of Anunoby’s rise from London courts to NBA glory.