Adam Silver Reveals Real Reason For NBA TV Ratings Decline
Adam Silver Reveals Real Reason For NBA TV Ratings Decline

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver has addressed the ongoing discussion about the league’s television ratings. While acknowledging changes in viewership patterns, Silver emphasizes that overall engagement with the NBA remains strong. He points to a shift in how younger audiences consume content, moving away from traditional cable television towards streaming services and social media platforms.
“We’re about even with last year in terms of our ratings. We were down initially in the season, we were up against the World Series. Obviously, there was a national election going on which was driving a lot of viewership towards politics,” he said recently.
“But now, we had a huge Christmas day. We’re up on ESPN and ABC, down a little bit on our other networks, but roughly even for the season, and last season was our highest regular season viewership in four years. So we’re doing fine from a viewership standpoint.”
The NBA’s ratings have faced scrutiny in recent years, with various factors contributing to fluctuations. Silver notes that while ratings on some networks have declined, others have seen increases. He highlights the league’s strong performance during key events like Christmas Day games. The commissioner stresses the importance of adapting to changing viewer habits and exploring new ways to attract and retain fans across different media platforms.
Adam Silver: NBA Players Should Heed Legends’ Advice
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver emphasized the importance of current players listening to basketball legends. In a conversation with Shaquille O’Neal, Silver expressed appreciation for the candid feedback provided by former stars.
Silver believes that honest critiques from NBA greats come from a place of genuine care for the game. He values the direct approach taken by shows like Inside The NBA, recognizing that these perspectives contribute to the league’s growth.
The commissioner stressed the significance of today’s players understanding the sacrifices made by their predecessors. He highlighted the need for current athletes to grasp the entertainment aspect of basketball, acknowledging that fans are the foundation of the NBA ecosystem.
Silver pointed out that while competition remains paramount, players should recognize their role in a larger picture. The league’s success depends on its 450 players understanding their impact beyond personal achievements.
To address concerns about player availability, the NBA implemented a 65-game threshold for award eligibility. This rule aims to encourage more consistent participation and has intensified competition for end-of-season honors.
The league faces challenges in improving viewership. Silver recognizes that enhancing the NBA’s popularity will require sustained effort from players to engage fans consistently.

Jennifer Withers Hoey is a former Business Development Manager who transitioned to writing about sports. With valuable connections all over the West Coast, she has used those contacts to break some of the most interesting stories pertaining to the Portland Trail Blazers, Oregon Ducks, LA Lakers, LA Clippers, Seattle Supersonics (RIP), and more.