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NBA tipoff sets a
ratings record for TNT

Doubleheader averages 3.68 million total viewers

By Diego Vasquez
Oct 29, 2009

Apparently the momentum from last year has carried over to the new season.

The NBA tipped off the regular season Tuesday night with its most-watched opening-night ever on TNT, dating back 26 years.

The doubleheader featuring the Boston Celtics-Cleveland Cavaliers and Los Angeles Clippers-LA Lakers averaged 3.68 million total viewers, up 43 percent over the 2.56 million who tuned in to last year's opener.

Among households, the two games were up 40 percent, from 1.91 million to 2.69 million.

The major adult demos all saw big jumps, too, with adults 18-34 up 35 percent, 18-49s up 35 percent, and 25-54s up 39 percent.

For the record, the Celtics and Lakers both won.

The big numbers come after a strong season last year. TNT recorded its most-watched regular season ever, and ABC's finals coverage earned the network's second-best average since acquiring rights to the NBA six years ago.

This season interest in the league looks similarly high, likely for several reasons. First, there is a lot of curiosity about the Cavaliers after the team acquired star center Shaquille O'Neal in the offseason. Tuesday marked the first time guard LeBron James, last year's MVP, has played alongside someone of that caliber, though it may take some getting used to -- after losing again yesterday, the Cavaliers are 0-2.

Second, the doubleheader tipped off with a marquee matchup. Cleveland and Boston are expected to be the two best teams in the East this year, and they'll be battling for home court advantage for the playoffs, meaning even an early game like this is important.

Finally, interest in sports generally has been up over recent months as families stay in to save money during this recession. The recently concluded American League Championship Series and the ongoing NFL season have both seen big ratings gains over last year.

Diego Vasquez is a staff writer for Media Life.	© 2010 Media Life Magazine

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