NBA Faces Declining Viewership as Legends and Officials Debate Causes

Shifts in viewing habits, game style, and player dynamics spark concerns over the league's future engagement.

NBA viewership has dropped significantly, with ratings on major networks down 25% compared to last season.
Commissioner Adam Silver attributes the decline to the shift from traditional cable to streaming, emphasizing the league's efforts to adapt to new platforms.
Legends like Shaquille O’Neal and Magic Johnson criticize the league’s over-reliance on three-point shooting, lack of rivalries, and load management for diminishing fan interest.
Former coach Rick Pitino suggests reintroducing hand-checking and greater physicality to restore competitiveness and excitement in the game.
Boston Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla and other observers express disengagement with regular-season games, pointing to a perceived lack of intensity and significance.