Want stronger NBA ratings? Win games and hire LeBron James
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Nielsen Media Research reports that several NBA franchises are enjoying noticeably higher television ratings in their local markets than during last season. Not surprisingly, winning ways and star power are driving the stronger ratings.
The New Orleans Hornets, coming off of last year’s strong showing, are the league leader with a 163% ratings jump. The Cleveland Cavaliers’ 109% ratings jump undoubtedly was driven by LeBron James leading the team to an eight-game winning streak.
The Lakers, who play in the nation’s second-largest media market and have Kobe Bryant, registered a respectable 14% gain. The New York Knicks, who play in the media market’s Big Apple, showed a 17% gain over last season. And plays like this by LeBron keep the fans tuned in.
Team Average local household rating
San Antonio 6.6
Cleveland 6.2
Portland 5.0
Utah 4.8
L.A. Lakers 4.2
Detroit 4.1
Phoenix 4.0
Boston 3.4
Houston 3.2
Chicago 2.9
2008-09 average local rating vs. 2007-08 season
Team Percentage change
New Orleans 163%
Cleveland 109%
Atlanta 97%
Portland 44%
Orlando 26%
New York 17%
L.A. Lakers 14%
Washington 12%
Philadelphia 10%
Memphis 10%
-- Greg Johnson