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Knicks' Championship Victory Costs NY Sportsbooks $48.5 Million
StrategyJune 25, 2026·1 min read

Knicks' Championship Victory Costs NY Sportsbooks $48.5 Million


The New York Knicks not only won the NBA championship against the San Antonio Spurs but also caused significant financial strain on local sportsbooks. Reports from the New York State Gaming Commission indicate that the state’s operators lost more than $48.5 million during the final week of the championship series.

The Knicks' Game 5 win was the most-bet NBA game ever at DraftKings. Live wagering during the NBA Finals saw major numbers, with live odds reaching 22-1 at one point during Game 4. Despite the deficit, New York bettors continued to support the home team, knowing they were capable of a comeback.

A particular New York bettor found some big wins against the house throughout the playoffs. The handicapper used a series of 'ladder bets' to cash in for millions of dollars wagering on the Knicks.

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Argus Riven

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Argus Riven

I've spent years at the tables — cash and tournaments — and just as long shaping poker copy behind the scenes: room reviews, bonus fine print, tournament notes. At PokerInsider I write the way I wish more sites would: clear structure, honest trade-offs, no hype. Whether you're new or already grinding, I care about what the offer actually costs you — rake, variance, and the fine print — and I treat responsible play as part of the job, not a footnote.

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