The Kobe Bryant/LeBron James battle did not translate to higher ratings on ABC Christmas Day.
The Cavaliers’ easy win over the Lakers drew a 5.0 overnight rating on ABC Friday, down 17% from a 6.0 for Celtics/Lakers last year, but up 43% from a 3.5 for Suns/Lakers in ’07. The 5.0 overnight for Cavaliers/Lakers ties their February 8 matchup, which also aired on ABC.
Earlier in the day, the Celtics’ win over the Magic drew a 3.8 overnight rating, up 6% from a 3.6 for Spurs/Suns last year, and up 23% from a 3.1 for Heat/Cavaliers in ’07.
On ESPN, Heat/Knicks drew a 2.0 overnight rating, up 33% from a 1.5 for Hornets/Magic last year. There was no comparable game in ’07.
Meanwhile, the Suns’ blowout of the Clippers drew a 1.1 overnight, even with Sonics/Blazers on ESPN in ’07. Numbers for last year’s comparable Wizards/Cavaliers game on TNT were unavailable.
The nightcap, Nuggets/Blazers, drew a 1.4 overnight rating. Numbers for last year’s Mavericks/Blazers game on TNT were unavailable; there was no comparable game in ’07.
