The NBA has been one of the most popular professional sports leagues in the world for several decades, and with the growth of technology, the league has expanded its reach to millions of viewers across the globe. However, the way in which fans consume NBA games has changed over time with the rise of streaming services and the increasing availability of live games on television. One of the most significant changes in recent years has been the difference in fan attendance and TV ratings for nationally televised games versus locally covered ones. While nationally televised games draw large audiences and generate considerable revenue for the league, locally covered games may not receive the same level of attention, even if they are equally important for the teams involved. This difference in viewership and revenue has led to an ongoing debate among fans and analysts about the importance of attendance versus TV ratings and how they impact the league's success. Some argue that fan attendance is critical for the energy and atmosphere it creates in the arena, while others point out that TV ratings are the most significant source of revenue for the league, as they generate advertising and broadcasting revenue.
In this blog post, we will explore the differences between fan attendance and TV ratings for nationally televised and locally covered NBA games. We will examine the reasons behind these differences and their impact on the league's success. Additionally, we will consider how the NBA can balance the importance of attendance and TV ratings to maintain its popularity and profitability.