ESPN’s first NBA double header hoops ratings gold

Michelle Clancy | 09-11-2013

Viewership for ESPN’s first Wednesday NBA doubleheader of the season, which happened on 6 November, was up 72% compared with the first Wednesday double header last season, according to Nielsen.

The combo of the Indiana Pacers v the Chicago Bulls (the Pacers won to remain undefeated) and the Oklahoma City Thunder beating the Dallas Mavericks averaged 2.05 million viewers (P2+).

The doubleheader averaged a 1.4 US household rating, up 56% from last year. In comparison, last season’s first Wednesday doubleheader, which included the Philadelphia 76ers at the New Orleans Pelicans and the San Antonio Spurs at Los Angeles Clippers, averaged 1.2 million viewers and a 0.9 US household rating.

The NBA on ESPN will continue with two double headers next week. On Wednesday, 13 November, the New York Knicks will visit the Atlanta Hawks, followed by the Thunder at the Clippers. On Friday, 15 November, the Minnesota Timberwolves will visit the Denver Nuggets, followed by the Detroit Pistons at Sacramento Kings.