The Chicago Bulls' impact on the NBA is undeniable, especially as the 2026 NBA Finals between the New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs became the most-watched Finals since Michael Jordan led the Bulls to victory in 1998. Jalen Brunson's stellar performance helped the Knicks secure their first championship since 1973, showcasing the excitement that echoes the Bulls' legendary playoff runs. This Finals series, which concluded in just five games, captivated fans and averaged 20.6 million viewers, a remarkable 100% increase from the previous year. The Bulls' historic 1998 Finals against the Utah Jazz averaged 29.04 million viewers, solidifying their status as a benchmark in NBA viewership. While the Knicks-Spurs series didn't quite reach those heights, it did surpass the 2017 Finals viewership, indicating a resurgence in NBA popularity. Game 3 of the series, held at Madison Square Garden, attracted 23.8 million viewers, marking the largest audience for a Finals Game 3 since the Bulls' era. Brunson's explosive 45-point performance in Game 5 mirrored Jordan's iconic moments, further linking the Knicks' triumph to the Bulls' legacy. This year's Finals not only set records but also reminded fans of the Chicago Bulls' enduring influence in the league.