Overnight ratings increased substantially for the second weekend of the NBA Playoffs on TNT.
Sunday’s NBA Playoff doubleheader on TNT averaged a 3.9 overnight rating, up 50% from last year’s comparable coverage (2.6).
In particular, Lakers/Hornets Game 4 drew a 4.6 overnight, up a whopping 84% from last year (DEN/UTA G4: 2.5), and up 109% from 2009 (POR/HOU G4: 2.2). The TNT broadcast drew a 17.7 rating in New Orleans and a 9.7 in Los Angeles.
The 4.6 overnight matches Game 1 of the series one week earlier, which aired on broadcast network ABC.
Earlier in the night, the Hawks’ Game 4 win over the Magic earned a 3.3 overnight, up 22% from last year (DAL/SA G4: 2.7), and up 83% from 2009 (ORL/PHI G4: 1.8). The TNT telecast earned a 6.2 in Atlanta and a 5.0 in Orlando.
On Saturday, TNT averaged a 2.7 overnight for an afternoon doubleheader, also up 50% from last year (1.8).
First, the Pacers’ season-saving win over the Bulls drew a 2.8 overnight, up 87% from last year (ORL/CHA G3: 1.5). TNT’s coverage drew a 9.8 in Indianapolis and a 6.3 in Chicago.
Later in the day, the Trail Blazers’ stirring comeback win over the Mavericks earned a 2.7 overnight, up 35% from last year (PHX/POR G4: 2.0), and up 108% from 2009 (SA/DAL G4: 1.3). TNT’s coverage earned a 5.3 in Dallas and a 4.9 in Portland.
Keep in mind when viewing the local numbers that first round NBA Playoff games on TNT and ESPN co-exist with local broadcasts in the home markets.
(Numbers from Turner Sports)
