The basketball from OG Anunoby's game-winning tip-in during the New York Knicks' historic comeback in Game 4 of the 2026 NBA Finals will not be sold at auction. The NBA announced it would pull the ball from a Sotheby's auction, scheduled to begin on June 30, and award it to the Knicks.
An NBA spokesperson stated that the ball holds "significant importance to the New York Knicks, their fans, and the city, and will remain with the team as a lasting piece of franchise history." The auction was expected to fetch as much as $3 million for the memorabilia.
Iconic Comeback
The ball was central to one of the most dramatic comebacks in NBA Finals history. The Knicks trailed the San Antonio Spurs by 29 points in Game 4, facing an 81-52 deficit in the third quarter. They began to rally, setting an NBA Finals record with 14 three-pointers in the second half.
The pivotal moment occurred with approximately five seconds left in the game and the Knicks leading by one point. Jalen Brunson took a long-range shot that fell short, hitting the front of the rim. Anunoby, who had inbounded the ball, leaped to tip it in for a 107-106 lead with 1.2 seconds remaining. The Knicks secured the victory, completing the comeback and ensuring the ball's place in franchise lore.
The collectibles market has seen significant growth in recent years, with companies like Fanatics leading in offerings of game-worn jerseys and athlete autographs. However, this particular piece of memorabilia will now remain with the team rather than enter private collection.