NBA Return NBC Audience Numbers
- the inaugural "NBA Tip-Off" event on NBC and Peacock averaged 5.6 million viewers, as reported by Nielsen and Adobe Analytics according to SportsPro.
- This marks NBC's return to broadcasting NBA games domestically after a hiatus of more than 20 years.
- The 5.6 million viewers represent the highest opening night viewership for the NBA since 2010.
NBC’s NBA Return Delivers Best Opening Night Viewership Since 2010
Table of Contents
NBC and Peacock’s broadcast of the NBA’s opening night on October 24th,2023,marked the league’s most-watched opening night since 2010,averaging 5.6 million viewers.
Key Viewership Numbers
the inaugural “NBA Tip-Off” event on NBC and Peacock averaged 5.6 million viewers, as reported by Nielsen and Adobe Analytics according to SportsPro. This figure combines viewership from both the NBC broadcast and the Peacock streaming service.
This marks NBC’s return to broadcasting NBA games domestically after a hiatus of more than 20 years. The last time NBC regularly broadcast NBA games was in 2002.
Past Context and Significance
The 5.6 million viewers represent the highest opening night viewership for the NBA since 2010. This resurgence in viewership is likely attributable to a combination of factors, including increased interest in the league, the availability of games on both traditional television and streaming platforms, and the promotional efforts surrounding NBC’s return to NBA broadcasting.
The partnership between the NBA and NBC/Peacock is part of a broader trend of sports leagues seeking to expand their reach through multiple media platforms. This allows them to cater to a wider audience and generate increased revenue.
The NBC/Peacock Deal
In April 2023, the NBA announced a multi-year partnership with NBCUniversal, bringing a selection of NBA games to NBC and Peacock as detailed on NBA.com. This deal includes regular-season games on NBC, and also exclusive content and coverage on Peacock.