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4mo ago

2025 NBA Playoffs Achieve Highest Opening Weekend Ratings in 25 Years

The league reports a 17% year-over-year viewership increase, with ABC/ESPN and TNT platforms setting records.

Apr 20, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Fans cheer in the third quarter of a game between the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Miami Heat at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-Imagn Images/File Photo
Apr 20, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen (31) jumps for the opening tip against the Miami Heat in the first quarter at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-Imagn Images/File Photo
Apr 20, 2025; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0) drives to the basket past Orlando Magic guard Gary Harris (14) during the second half at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-Imagn Images
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Overview

  • The opening weekend of the 2025 NBA playoffs averaged 4.4 million viewers, marking the highest ratings since 2000 and a 17% increase from 2024.
  • ABC/ESPN platforms saw their most-watched opening weekend ever, averaging 4.9 million viewers across six games.
  • Sunday’s Boston Celtics vs. Orlando Magic Game 1 on ABC was the weekend's most-viewed game, averaging 6.69 million viewers and peaking at over 8 million.
  • TNT, truTV, and MAX achieved an eight-year high with an average of 4.13 million viewers for their Sunday broadcasts, up 23% from last year.
  • NBA Commissioner Adam Silver highlighted the league's success in leveraging digital channels and out-of-home metrics to expand its audience.