Despite tough competition, ESPN scored increases for its first NBA doubleheader of the season.
The Timberwolves/Lakers NBA regular season game scored a 1.8 overnight rating on ESPN Wednesday night, up 50% from Thunder/Blazers last year (1.2). There was no comparable game in 2013, as ESPN took the first Wednesday of the season off from 2011-13 to avoid the World Series.
ESPN’s telecast had a 3.6 rating in Los Angeles and a 1.7 in Minneapolis-St. Paul. Keep in mind the game was available on local RSNs in both markets.
Earlier in the night, Spurs/Thunder drew a 1.5 overnight — up a tick from Bulls/Knicks last year (1.4). Again, there was no comparable game in 2013. The Thunder’s win had a 7.4 rating in Oklahoma City and a 5.6 in San Antonio.
The full doubleheader averaged a 1.7 overnight, up 31% from last year (1.3), despite airing opposite Game 2 of the World Series on FOX and the Republican Presidential Debate on CNBC. Last year’s coverage may have had tougher competition, however, facing Game 7 of the World Series.
(Wed. numbers from ESPN Media Zone)
