OG Anunoby’s game-winning basketball from the Knicks’ 2026 NBA Finals victory is set to auction at Sotheby’s, with bids expected to reach millions. The ball, which sealed New York’s first title in 53 years, carries historic significance after Anunoby’s dramatic tip-in in Game 4 against the Spurs on 10 June.
What happened in the 2026 NBA Finals?
On 10 June, the Knicks trailed the San Antonio Spurs by one point with seconds left in Game 4. Jalen Brunson’s three-pointer missed, but Anunoby soared for the offensive rebound and tipped it in with 1.2 seconds remaining. The 107-106 win gave New York a 3-1 series lead, and they closed it out in Game 5 to claim their first championship since 1973. The ball from that play is now Lot 3 in Sotheby’s auction, running from 30 June to 8 July.
Why is this basketball so valuable?
The ball represents more than just a game-winning play. It symbolizes the Knicks’ largest Finals comeback—a 29-point deficit erased—and their record 14 three-pointers in a half. Appraisers estimate its value between $2.5 million and $4.5 million, with some suggesting it could exceed $5 million. Comparable items, like Kobe Bryant and Shaquille O’Neal’s 2000 championship ball, sold for $508,000, but none carried the weight of ending a 53-year title drought.
How does the auction work?
Sotheby’s lists the ball as the “Hand of OG” game-used basketball, tied directly to Anunoby’s clutch play. Bidding opens on 30 June and closes on 8 July. While Sotheby’s hasn’t released an official estimate, experts believe the final price could shatter records for sports memorabilia. The auction house describes it as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Knicks fans and collectors alike.
What does this mean for OG Anunoby?
Anunoby’s tip-in wasn’t just a highlight—it cemented his legacy as a key player in New York’s championship run. The auction elevates his profile, linking his name to one of the most iconic moments in Knicks history. For a player often praised for defense and consistency, this play now defines his clutch reputation. The ball’s sale ensures his role in the title will be remembered for decades.
Who might buy it?
The winning bidder will likely be a deep-pocketed Knicks fan or a memorabilia collector with a passion for NBA history. Given the ball’s ties to Anunoby, the comeback, and the championship, it appeals to multiple layers of fandom. The emotional value—ending half a century of frustration—could push the final price even higher than appraisers predict.