The 2025 NBA Finals saw a notable uptick in audience numbers during its decisive seventh game, with ABC drawing an average of 16.35 million viewers tuning in to watch the Oklahoma City Thunder defeat the Indiana Pacers. This figure marks the highest viewership for an NBA Finals game since 2019 and helped elevate the overall performance of the postseason broadcast slate across Disney networks. The final moments of the contest, which peaked at nearly 19.3 million viewers, provided a bright spot for the league as it wrapped up one of the least-watched Finals series in recent history.

Despite the strong showing on Sunday, the entire 2025 NBA Finals averaged just over 10.27 million viewers per game, placing it among the lowest-rated championship series of the 21st century. Only the 2003 and 2007 Finals had lower averages before this year, and those were also held in the traditional June window. Unlike previous years dominated by powerhouse franchises like the Lakers or Celtics, the matchup between Oklahoma City and Indiana—two smaller-market teams—likely contributed to the reduced national appeal and fewer casual fans tuning in regularly.

While the NBA continues to navigate shifting viewer habits and market dynamics, the success of Game Seven proves that competitive, high-stakes basketball still holds the power to captivate audiences. As leagues and broadcasters adapt to new realities, the enduring excitement of a championship finale remains a testament to the sport’s ability to unite fans, even amid broader challenges. The future will depend on how well the NBA can balance growth with maintaining the intensity and drama that make moments like Game Seven unforgettable.