The Lakers/Celtics NBA Finals is way up in ratings compared to last year, but down when compared to 2004, the last time the Lakers were in the Finals.
Game 2 of the Finals drew an 8.5 rating with 13.5 million viewers on Sunday, down in ratings but up in total viewers from Game 1, which drew an 8.7 rating with 13.4 million viewers.
Compared to last year, the game was up 52% and 57% from a 5.6 rating with 8.6 million viewers for Cavaliers/Spurs Game 2. Compared to 2004 however, Game 2 saw declines of 21% and 16% from Pistons/Lakers Game 2, which drew a 10.7 rating and 16.7 million viewers on a Tuesday night.
Game 2 drew a 5.5 rating among adults 18-49, up 62% from last year, but down 21% from 2004. The game was the most watched show on television on Sunday night in both total viewers and key demographics.
Through two games, the NBA Finals is averaging an 8.6 rating with 13.5 million viewers, up 43% and 52% from last year, but down 16% and 14% from 2004.
