The NBA averaged 4 million viewers per game during the first round of the playoffs across ABC/ESPN, Amazon Prime Video, NBC, and Peacock — a 22% increase from last year and the highest opening-round average since 1993.
NBC’s broadcast television games played a significant role in the jump, but all three major rights holders posted audience gains. Longer series also helped: six of the eight first-round matchups went at least six games, with three reaching a decisive Game 7.
The game received a powerful lead-in from the Kentucky Derby, also on NBC/Peacock, which set a viewership record with a preliminary 19.6 million viewers.
The NBA’s strong start continues a spring sports ratings boom. The NHL’s opening playoff round saw a 68% increase to record levels for its current ESPN and TNT deals. The NBA’s regular season itself finished up 16%, reaching a seven-year high.
These gains come as Nielsen continues to evolve its measurement system, including expanded out-of-home viewing and the recent Big Data + Panel process, with co-viewing enhancements expected this fall.