Multiple sweeps and zero Game 7s have driven down the ratings for the 2010 NBA Playoffs on TNT.
Through the second round, TNT is averaging a 2.4 U.S. rating and 3.6 million viewers for coverage of the NBA Playoffs, down 8% in ratings from last year (2.6), and flat compared to 2008 (2.4)
TNT aired three fewer games during the first two rounds this season, due primarily to the three sweeps that took place during the second round.
The network did not air a single Game 7, compared to two last year — Bulls/Celtics Game 7 (the most-viewed first round game ever on cable) and Magic/Celtics Game 7 (the most-viewed second round game ever on cable).
Despite the declines, TNT aired the most-viewed game of the postseason so far — Tuesday’s Celtics/Cavaliers Game 5 (6.7 mil). Game 5 was the highest rated, most-viewed basketball game on cable, college or pro, since last year’s Eastern Conference Finals.
Overall, considering the lack of drama in the 2010 NBA Playoffs, the fact that ratings are still within 10% of last year — which, in addition to the aforementioned Bulls/Celtics and Magic/Celtics series, also featured a big-market battle between the Rockets and Lakers — can be considered a good thing.
(Turner Sports)
