In the midst of an economic downturn, both the NBA and NHL saw increased attendance during their respective 2008-09 seasons.
The NBA averaged 17,520 fans per game during the now-completed 2008-09 season, up 1% from 17,395 last season, and the third-highest average attendance in league history. The four highest average attendance levels in league history have come in the past four seasons.
The NBA finished slightly ahead of the NHL in attendance. The NHL averaged 17,460 fans per game during the 2008-09 season, up 1% from 17,265 last year, and an all-time record for the league.
NBA/NHL attendance since 2002-03 season.
