Pro Athlete Priced Out of NBA Finals Due to Ticket Costs
New York Jets wide receiver Garrett Wilson, who commands an average annual salary of $32.5 million, has expressed surprise at the exorbitant cost of tickets for the New York Knicks’ NBA Finals games. Despite his considerable earnings, Wilson finds courtside seats at Madison Square Garden to be financially prohibitive.
The Knicks are making their first appearance in the NBA Finals in nearly three decades, aiming for their first championship title since 1973. Their path to victory now includes a highly anticipated showdown against Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs, a rematch of the 1999 finals.
Resale Market Shockwaves
Analysis of the secondary market reveals staggering prices for potential attendees. At present, the least expensive ticket available for Game 3 in New York is listed at over $4,700. Seats for Game 6 are priced at more than $5,100, with the most premium option reaching an astonishing $224,000.
Even for a player with a recently signed four-year contract worth $130 million, these figures are a significant barrier. Wilson, who earns $32.5 million annually, stated his enthusiasm for the Knicks’ success but indicated a reluctance to purchase tickets at current rates.
Rooting from the Sidelines
“I’m glad I’m up here for it – I’m rooting the Knicks on like hell,” Wilson commented. When questioned about attending any of the games, he replied, “Them jawns are expensive. So, not yet. I’m gonna be watching.”
Wilson also drew parallels between the Knicks’ playoff run and the aspirations of his own team. He believes the city’s palpable excitement for a championship is an inspiration for the Jets, who are currently enduring the longest active playoff drought in North American professional sports.
“The city deserves it,” Wilson continued. “Then, when you see the way they receive it, it’s just like we wish it could happen every year. Seeing the people, the way they get behind their team.”
He added, “I know Jet fans are frothing at the mouth to cheer like that, and we want to give it to them. I personally want to give it to them the most.” Wilson expressed that witnessing such dedication provides a glimpse of what could be achieved by his team. “That gives us a taste of what it might look like when we figure this thing out… we’re excited for the opportunity.”
The NBA Finals commence with Game 1 in San Antonio on Wednesday, June 3.
